Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide and is almost always caused by certain HPV viruses (high-risk pathogens). It can take years or decades for an infection to develop into a tumour. Pre-cancerous stages can be detected by a Pap smear. However, between 2017 and 2019 there have still been 853 deaths from cervical cancer in the UK.

More than 99% of tissue samples from cervical tumours contain the genetic material of HPV. Other risk factors are smoking and a weakened immune defence (e.g., due to HIV or medication).

In the UK, cervical cancer is the 14th most common cancer in women. Around 3,300 women are diagnosed every year¹. Women between the ages of 30 and 34 are particularly affected.

Often, there are no symptoms to begin with. Possible early signs are non-specific symptoms such as tiredness, weight loss, abdominal pain or irregular bleeding. Important warning signs are unusual bleeding (e.g., after menopause or after sex), painful discharge or pain in the lower abdomen. If you experience such symptoms, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Cancer often does not cause any symptoms for a long time. However, if symptoms occur, such as unusual bleeding or painful discharge, it is important to consult a doctor quickly. A Pap smear and a colposcopy with tissue sampling are diagnostic procedures.

The course of cervical cancer varies, but often begins with non-specific symptoms. Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis.

In early stages, the tumour is usually removed surgically. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are used for cancer in advanced stages.

If left untreated, cervical cancer can lead to serious health problems and death. Depending on the type and extent of treatment, fertility may be limited or impossible.

After surgery, radiotherapy to the pelvic area or chemotherapy, the chances of pregnancy may be impaired. If you wish to have children, possible measures should be discussed prior to treatment.

The most important measure to prevent cervical cancer is the HPV vaccination, which should be administered before the first sexual intercourse. The NHS recommends the vaccination for girls and boys aged 12-13 years, whereby missed vaccinations should be caught up on by the age of 25. Vaccination can also help to reduce the risk of re-infection or recurrence of precancerous lesions after an infection has been contracted.