99.7% of all cervical cancers are attributed to the human papillomavirus. Cervical cancer can be either squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma (glandular). Adenocarcinoma is associated more frequently with high risk HPV type 18 and account for approximately 10% of cervical cancers. Squamous cell cancers are associated predominantly with high risk HPV type 16 and account for 80 to 90% of cervical cancers. There are approximately 12,000 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed each year in the US and 500,000 cases worldwide. Some research indicates cervical carcinoma in situ is four times more common than invasive cervical cancer. Hispanic women have double the rate of cervical cancer than non-hispanic white women. Black women have a 50% higher rate of developing cervical cancer than non-hispanic white women. Worldwide, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of death among women. Most importantly, cervical cancer is preventable. Approximately 15 strains of HPV cause cervical cancer.
Symptoms
HPV can be insidious because usually there are no symptoms with cervical cancer. The virus can produce cell changes called dysplasia which if untreated can develop into cancer. Symptoms which are associated with cervical cancer include bleeding which is abnormal for you such as after intercourse and discharge. Symptoms are often not noticed until cancer is at an advanced stage. This is why it is so important to have annual Pap tests. An initial Pap should be done within 3 years of becoming sexually active or by age 21 whichever comes first.
Risk Factors for Developing Cervical Cancer
Risk factors include a history of HPV, an increased number of sexual partners since this can increase your chances of contracting the virus, lack of regular Pap smears, smoking, and a history of HIV/AIDS.
Diagnosing Cervical Cancer
A diagnosis of cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer is typically picked up with the Pap smear. While the Pap can show abnormal cell changes caused by HPV a separate test must be used to determine the presence of HPV. The HPV test has been shown to be more accurate than the Pap with respect to CIN2 and CIN3 (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia). Another procedure used for presumptive diagnosis is the colposcopy. This involves utilizing a vinegar wash followed by viewing the area with a high resolution microscope. Abnormal cells will appear white during a colposcopy and a biopsy can be taken to determine if dysplasia or cancer cells are present.
Treatment for Cervical Cancer
There are numerous treatments for cervical cancer all of which depend upon the degree of involvement at the time of diagnosis. Laser ablation of the cervix, LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure), CKC (cold knife conization) are a few of the treatments which can be used. If the cancer is more advanced a hysterectomy may be required. For those of child bearing age, a trachelectomy may be performed to retain the woman's fertility and allow for the possibility of having a child in the future. Vaccination with Gardasil (for those age 9 to 26) can help to prevent the types of HPV associated with 80% of cervical cancers. Prevention is the best medicine.
Resources
Any Mother's Daughter, Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. Information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. This is not a substitute for professional care. If you suspect you may have a health problem consult your healthcare provider. Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited.
