Cervical cancer
is found in the tissue of the cervix. The cancer grows at a slow rate. As it grows, the cells spread through the cervix and into the surrounding areas.
Signs and Symptoms
Early on, cervical cancer might not cause any noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, you might begin to see signs such as pelvic pain, pain during sexual intercourse, vaginal bleeding between periods or after intercourse, or a bloody vaginal discharge with a foul smell.
Risk Factors
Those who do not have access to medical care are at an increased risk because they do not get regular screenings. Having many sexual partners, becoming sexually active at an early age and smoking are also risk factors for cervical cancer.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection. Women with HPV have a significantly higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
Statistics
According to the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 11,270 new cases will be diagnosed in 2009. The National Cancer Institute also estimates 4,070 women will die from cervical cancer in 2009.
Complications
Some treatments for cervical cancer can make it impossible to get pregnant. There are procedures available if the cancer is detected early enough that do not rule out future pregnancies.
Tags: cervical cancer, Cancer Institute, cervical cancer, National Cancer, National Cancer Institute