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Cervical Cancer AdviceWhen people think of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), they almost always think of genital warts. However, there are many different types of HPV. People also often think of the relationship between the virus and cervical cancer. Again, people do not always have the correct information. The strain of HPV that causes warts does not cause cervical cancer. There are actually four strains that are often found in these pre-cancerous cells that are considered a high risk cause of cervical cancer. It is important that patient who have this type of HPV infection understand the risk of developing per-cancerous cells or cancer of the cervix. Many women who suffer from cervical cancer also suffered from Human Papillomavirus in the past. Some sources believe that up to 99.7% of all cervical cancers come from previous infection with the virus. Certain types of the virus make the cells on the outer layer of the cervix more likely to turn into cancer at a later time. However, many women who suffer from the virus do not develop cancer. There are other factors such as smoking, usage of birth control pills, a suppressed immune system, or unsafe sex practices that also contribute to a woman’s likelihood of developing cervical cancer. Despite these other factors, it is widely believed that contraction of Human Papillomavirus greatly increases a woman’s chances of developing cervical cancer. In turn, it is assumed that prevention of the virus should serve to greatly decrease the chances of cervical cancer. Practicing safe-sex practices can help to keep a woman free of Human Papillomavirus and free from cervical cancer. It is not always easy to tell if a person infected with Human Papillomavirus is developing pre-cancerous cells. At first, cells may only change slightly, and these changes may not be visible through a microscope. However, changes can occur with time, and cervical dysplasia or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia can be seen through a biopsy of cervical cells. Once this diagnosis is made, women should seek treatment to stop these abnormal cells from spreading and replacing normal cells in the cervix. If left untreated, full-blown cancer will most likely develop. Women who suffer from any type of Human Papillomavirus should take care to receive regular gynecological checkups. Routine testing can help to detect warning signs of cancer before it is too late. Physicians can help women understand what likelihood there is for them to develop cervical cancer and take precautions in advance. |
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