HPV cervical cancer is a form of malignant cancer that affects a woman's cervix and surrounding area. An HPV infection causes cancer by altering healthy cells in the cervix, which eventually causes the cells to become cancerous. If detected early enough, these precancerous cells can be treated. Preventative measures should be taken by all women to maintain cervical health.
Causes
HPV cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. More than 150 types of HPV are currently known, and two of these are considered high-risk, causing more than 70 percent of all cases, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (see Resources).
Symptoms
The earliest stages of HPV cervical cancer may be completely free of symptoms. In later stages, symptoms include vaginal bleeding and discharge, pain during intercourse, pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, leaking of urine from the vagina, and in rare cases, a vaginal mass.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of HPV cervical cancer requires a biopsy of the cervix, performed through colposcopy, or a magnified inspection of the cervix. Pre-diagnosis may include a Pap smear test.
Treatment
If detected early, a hysterectomy, combined with radiation therapy and lymph node removal, may eliminate the HPV cervical cancer. Later stages of the cancer may require radiation therapy and chemotherapy, followed by a hysterectomy.
Prevention
A yearly Pap smear test is the most effective prevention method for HPV cervical cancer, by detecting precancerous cells before they become cancerous. Other methods of prevention include using condoms, having only one sexual partner, getting an HPV vaccination, not smoking and getting proper nutrition.
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