The short answer
Almost all cervical cancer is caused by long-lasting infection with certain types of HPV. Smoking, a weakened immune system, and not getting regular screening also raise risk. The HPV vaccine and screening greatly lower risk.
Almost all cervical cancer is caused by certain types of HPV.
Long-lasting HPV infection is the main cause, not a brief one.
Smoking and a weakened immune system raise risk.
Not getting regular screening raises the risk of cancer developing undetected.
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The full explanation.
The simple version
Cervical cancer is unusual among cancers in that we know its main cause: almost all cases are caused by long-lasting infection with certain types of HPV. This is also why it is one of the most preventable cancers, through vaccination and screening.
HPV is the main cause
Most HPV infections clear on their own and cause no harm. But long-lasting infection with certain high-risk types can cause cervical cells to change and, over time, become cancer.
Almost all cervical cancer is caused by long-lasting HPV infection.
Other risk factors
Smoking, a weakened immune system (for example from HIV), and not getting regular screening all raise the risk that cervical cancer develops or goes undetected.
Lowering your risk
The HPV vaccine prevents infection with the types that cause most cervical cancer, and regular Pap and HPV screening finds changes early. Together they greatly lower risk. Ask your doctor about the vaccine and your screening schedule.
Words to know
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Common questions
▸What causes cervical cancer?
Almost all cervical cancer is caused by long-lasting infection with certain high-risk types of HPV (human papillomavirus). Most HPV infections clear on their own, but lasting infection can lead to cancer over time.
▸What else raises risk?
Smoking, a weakened immune system (for example from HIV), and not getting regular screening all raise risk.
▸How can risk be lowered?
The HPV vaccine prevents infection with the types that cause most cervical cancer, and regular screening finds changes early. Together they greatly lower risk.
▸Who should get the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for preteens and is also given to older teens and young adults. Ask your doctor about the right timing.
Questions to ask your doctor
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