HPV and Cervical Cancer: Understanding the Connection

Cervical cancer, like most cancers, is a worrying condition. It also happens to be one of the most common cancers in women worldwide. In fact, the 5-year survival rate of this deadly cancer is only 67%. But did you know that these deaths can be prevented?
 
Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by one, single culprit. The Human Papillomavirus.

What is Human Papillomavirus?

As the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract, there are over 200 different types of HPV. The HPV virus spreads through close contact during sexual activity. In fact, it is probable that most sexually active individuals have already been exposed to the infection. 
 
Usually, the infection resolves by itself without any health problems, but in some cases, it can cause certain HPV-related cancers. In fact, this viral infection happens to be a major cervical cancer risk factor.

What is the meaning of cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer affects the cells lining the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. When these cells begin to undergo abnormal changes, they can be graded on a scale of 1 to 3, depending on how much of the tissue looks abnormal. 
 
This includes CIN 1, CIN 2 and CIN 3 (CIN = Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia):
 
CIN1: In this stage, not much of the tissue looks abnormal. These cells usually change back to normal cells.
 
CIN2 and CIN3: More of the tissue start to undergo abnormal growth. In this stage, there is a higher risk that the cells can become cancer cells and will need to be monitored or removed.

Cervical Cancer Causes: HPV

We know that HPV is one of the main causes of cervical cancer, but how exactly does HPV develop into cervical cancer?
 
To understand this we need to understand the 2 different types of HPV, oncogenic, and non-oncogenic. 
 
Non-oncogenic HPV types: These are low-risk types of HPV, such as types 6  
or 11, which are responsible for causing genital warts.
 
Oncogenic HPV types: These high-risk types of HPV are what you need to watch out for. They act as carcinogens in the development of cervical cancer and other anal and genital cancers.  
 
In fact, oncogenic HPV types 16 and 18 are the cause of approximately 66% of cervical cancers worldwide.
 
The growth of these cancer cells is a slow process. It may take years, or even decades, to form after HPV infection.

How do I know if I have HPV or cervical cancer?

HPV may lead to genital warts in men and women. However, most HPV infections do not present any symptoms.
 
Cervical cancer symptoms are also hard to detect in the early stage. When they do occur, they may look like this:
 
Early-stage symptoms of cervical cancer:

• Bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Spotting or light bleeding outside of one’s periods
• Postmenopausal spotting or bleeding
• Watery vaginal discharge accompanied by a foul smell 

There is no way to predict who will or will not develop cancer or other health problems from HPV. However, there are some measures you can take to help protect yourself against cancer.

How to Prevent Cervical Cancer

Fortunately, HPV can be prevented if you take the right measures in time, which can in turn prevent cervical cancer. Let’s discuss a few of these preventive measures.
 
Get vaccinated against HPV: HPV vaccines are one of the many ways in which you can help protect against cervical cancer and certain other cancers caused by HPV.  It may help prevent infection of high-risk HPV types 16 and 18, which cause most HPV-related cancers like cervical cancer.
 
Get regular cervical screenings: Routine screenings may help detect cervical cancer at an early stage, where intervention can be most beneficial.
 
Practise safe sex: Use protection every time you engage in sexual intercourse, and be in mutually monogamous relationships. This may help reduce the spread of HPV. However, it is not a foolproof method.
 
The connection between HPV and cervical cancer is clear and significant, but measures like HPV vaccination and early detection can play a crucial role in identifying precancerous changes in the cervix before they progress to cancer. Safe sex practices, a healthy lifestyle, and public education are all essential components of tackling HPV and its associated health risks. By understanding and addressing the connection between HPV and cervical cancer, we can help reduce the burden of this preventable condition.
 
Interested in learning more about the connection between HPV and cervical cancer? Get expert-guided information on HPV prevention and vaccination on our dedicated HPV prevention page.

Disclaimer: HPV – Human Papillomavirus. This information is intended for awareness purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor.

*Image for representation purpose only

 
IN-HPV-00540 – 14/2/2024 – 19/12/2025