Although
the exact causes of cervix cancer are unknown, several risk factors appear to
be linked with the disease, such as:
Infection HPV Virus - More than 90% of women with cancer of the cervix
are infected with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). HPV is the single most important
factor for cervical cancer. HPV usually causes warts in the genital area. The
viruses are passed from one person to another during unprotected sex. Because
HPV is spread mainly through sex, women who start having sex at a young age, who
have multiple sexual partners, and whose partners have had many other partners
are more likely to have HPV. Early sexual activity is one
such factor. The cells lining the cervix do not fully mature until the age of
18 and this increases the risk of HPV.
Other Sexually
transmitted diseases (also called STDs or STIs - sexually transmitted infections)
including gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis or HIV/AIDS are also increases the risk
of HPV.
Cigarette smokers are two to three times more likely
than nonsmokers to develop cervix cancer.
Possible long-term
(more than five years) use of oral contraceptives.
An irregular
screening history- Women who have not regularly had a Pap test (smear) are at
increased risk of cervical cancer. In particular, many women over age 60 have
not had regular Pap tests and are at increased risk.
