What Is Cervical Cancer?
What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer develops in the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina, known as the cervix. The vast majority of cases are associated with long-term infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Most HPV infections clear on their own; however, when certain high-risk types persist, they can cause cellular changes and, over time, cancer. Exposure to HPV does not necessarily mean that cancer will develop.
How common is cervical cancer?
According to WHO’s global estimates for 2022, there were approximately 660.000 new cases of cervical cancer and 350.000 deaths from the disease worldwide. Cervical cancer ranks 4th among both the most common cancers and the causes of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. These global figures do not represent country-specific rates or an individual’s risk.
What are the symptoms?
Precancerous cellular changes and early-stage cervical cancer may often cause no symptoms. Symptoms that may require further evaluation include:
- Vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse, between menstrual periods or after menopause
- Unusual, watery or blood-stained vaginal discharge
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Persistent groin or pelvic pain
These symptoms can also occur for other reasons. Medical evaluation is needed, particularly for unexpected or recurrent bleeding. The absence of symptoms does not make screening unnecessary.
What do HPV and Pap tests show?
An HPV test checks a cervical sample for high-risk HPV types associated with cancer. A Pap test (cervical cytology) examines cells collected from the cervix for abnormal changes.
These tests are used for screening and early assessment; neither test alone diagnoses cervical cancer. A positive HPV test does not mean that cancer is present. Depending on the result and the individual’s risk profile, follow-up testing, cytology, colposcopy or biopsy may be needed. Cancer is diagnosed by examining suspicious tissue.
At Wellcare Laboratories, the HPV PCR test can check for the HPV types covered by the test. The result should be interpreted alongside a gynaecological assessment and any available cytology findings.
When should screening be performed?
The age at which screening begins and the screening interval may vary depending on the test used, the individual’s health, previous results and the local screening programme. When HPV DNA testing is used as the primary test in the general population, WHO recommends starting screening at age 30 and repeating it every 5–10 years if the test is negative. For people living with HIV, WHO recommends starting screening at age 25 and repeating it every 3–5 years. A doctor should determine the appropriate plan for each individual. You can learn more about the HPV PCR test performed at our laboratory.
The HPV vaccine provides protection against the main HPV types that cause cervical cancer; however, it may not cover all cancer-associated types. Vaccinated individuals therefore also need to continue with an appropriate screening programme.
Can cervical cancer be prevented?
HPV vaccination helps prevent HPV-related cancers when given at the appropriate age and according to the recommended dose schedule. Regular screening helps detect precancerous cellular changes and enables treatment when needed. WHO’s global elimination targets include vaccinating girls by age 15, screening women at ages 35 and 45, and ensuring access to appropriate treatment for people diagnosed with precancerous lesions or cancer.
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive HPV result mean I have cervical cancer?
No. A positive result indicates that one of the high-risk HPV types covered by the test has been detected; it is not a cancer diagnosis. The next step is determined by a doctor based on the test result and other findings.
Do people who have received the HPV vaccine need screening?
Yes. Although the vaccine provides substantial protection, it does not cover all high-risk HPV types; screening should continue according to recommendations for the individual and the local programme.
Does a Pap test or HPV PCR test definitively diagnose cancer?
No. These are screening and risk assessment tests. If there are suspicious findings, investigations such as colposcopy and biopsy may be needed for diagnosis.