Cervical Cancer (Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix)

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What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervix cancers may be of the Squamous Cell Carcinoma type and usually arise from the epithelium lining the cervix. 90% of all carcinomas of the cervix are of the squamous cell type.

The cervix is the extension of the uterus into the top part of the vagina. A small passage through the middle of the cervix leads into the cavity of the uterus.

In a normal situation, squamous epithelium lines the cervix from this opening outwards. The inside of the cervix normally has a more fragile epithelium lining, which under normal circumstances is not exposed to the environment.

Certain hormonal changes such as pregnancy and the oral contraceptive pill may cause the inner lining from inside the cervix to migrate outwards to be visible on the outside of the cervix. This is sometimes referred to as an erosion by doctors.

For more health information on cervical cancer visit your local doctor.

Who gets Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is common and occurs during child bearing years, usually in the 20's, 30's or 40's with sex incidence being obviously in females.

Geographically, the cervical tumour is found worldwide but it is especially common in women in the western world.

Predisposing Factors

The number one predisposing factor for cervical cancer is infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Any factor which increases a woman's risk of contracting Human Papilloma Virus will increase the risk of cervical cancer.

These following factors increase a womans risk of getting Human Papilloma Virus (HPV):