Getting to the Root of Cervical Cancers

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Cervical cancers begin in the lining of the cervix, which connects the body of the uterus to the vagina. Cervical cells that are normal slowly develop precancerous changes, which then turn into cancer. Very few women with these precancerous changes of the cervix will go on to get cervical cancer. So cervical cancers do not form overnight.

The process of developing cervical cancer generally takes a few years, but it can sometimes happen in less than a year or six months. For the majority of women, precancerous cells will remain changeless, and disappear without any treatment. However, if these precancerous cells are treated, some real cancers can be stopped.

There are two ways to stop this disease from taking root. One way is to absolutely prevent the formation of the precancers and the second is to diagnose, find, and treat the precancerous changes before they turn into the actual cancer.

Cervical precancers are formed due to exposure to the human papilloma virus or HPV. Vaccinations against HPV and using condoms help to limit such exposure. Another way to prevent cervical cancer is to have tests done, and this includes a Pap smear test, which will help to detect HPV and precancerous lesions. The American Cancer Society lays down guidelines for the early detection of cervical cancers and lays stress on the need to have a Pap smear test every year.