What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix. Normally, cells divide and grow in an orderly manner. Cancer happens when cells grow out of control in the cervix. Before cancer develops, cells that line the cervix may change and become abnormal. In most cases, these abnormal cells grow slowly, over a period of 10 to 15 years. If found early, these cell changes can be treated and removed. This usually prevents cervical cancer. When not found early, these abnormal cell changes can turn into cervical cancer. The cancer cells crowd out normal cells and cause health problems.

Where is the cervix?

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (or womb) that opens into the vagina. The cervix is like a donut-shaped doorway between the vagina and the uterus. Sperm pass through the opening during sex. In childbirth, the cervix opens so the baby can be born.

How common is cervical cancer?

The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2011, about 12,710 women in the United States will develop cervical cancer and about 4,290 will die from it.

There is good news, however. The number of American women with cervical cancer has decreased about 70 percent in the past 50 years - largely thanks to the Pap test. The bad news is that too many women are still getting cervical cancer and are still dying. This sad picture can change for the better.

• First, girls and young women should consider whether the HPV vaccine is right for them.
• Second, all women 21 and older (or three years within first becoming sexually active) need to be screened regularly with the Pap test.
• Third, women 30 and older should ask their healthcare provider for an HPV test along with their Pap test. The HPV test detects HPV, the virus that causes cervical cancer and increases a clinician's ability to determine which women are at risk for cervical disease and cancer.

Who can get cervical cancer?

Any woman with a cervix who is or has been sexually active can get cervical cancer.

At what age do most cervical cancers occur?

Women of any age can get cervical cancer. Cervical cancer usually occurs in women over 30 years old.