What it means
Most cases are caused by long-lasting infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), passed through sexual contact. Cells of the cervix change slowly over years before becoming cancer, so screening can find and treat the changes early. Most cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomaSKWAY-mus SEL kar-sih-NOH-muhA cancer that starts in squamous cells, the thin, flat cells of the skin's outer layer and the linings of some organs.Full entry s. Early stages often cause no symptoms.
For the nurse
Teach that the HPV vaccine is recommended at age 11 to 12 (it can be started at 9) and that regular screening with a Pap test, an HPV test or both starts at age 21. Smoking raises the risk.
At a glance
| Spanish | cáncer de cuello uterino, cáncer cervical |
|---|---|
| Also written | cervical cancers |
Related terms
carcinoma
A cancer that starts in the cells that line the skin or the inside and outside surfaces of organs.
gynecology
The branch of medicine that cares for the female reproductive organs and breasts.
wart
A small, rough, harmless growth on the skin caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
squamous cell carcinoma
A cancer that starts in squamous cells, the thin, flat cells of the skin's outer layer and the linings of some organs.