Cervical Cancer risk factors are the conditions and exposures that increase the likelihood of developing malignant changes in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus opening into the vagina. The predominant and necessary cause is persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually tr…
Cervical Cancer risk factors are the conditions and exposures that increase the likelihood of developing malignant changes in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus opening into the vagina. The predominant and necessary cause is persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus whose oncogenic activity drives the transformation of cervical epithelial cells; understanding HPV-induced carcinogenesis is therefore central to defining risk. Factors that increase the probability of acquiring or failing to clear HPV, or that promote progression to cancer, include early onset of sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, immunosuppression, co-infections, tobacco smoking, and long-term use of oral contraceptives. Limited access to and low uptake of screening compounds these biological risks, allowing precancerous lesions to advance undetected, a pattern observed across many regions and populations. Molecular characteristics of tumors, such as activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, may further influence disease behavior. Recognizing these risk factors enables targeted prevention through HPV vaccination, regular cytological and HPV-based screening, and early intervention for detected lesions. Disparities in awareness and screening participation among different communities of women shape who is most affected. Research in this area examines the distribution and interaction of risk factors, the mechanisms of HPV-driven carcinogenesis, and the social and behavioral determinants that influence screening uptake and ultimately the prevention of Cervical Cancer.
7 peer-reviewed articles, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.