LIVING WITH CANCER

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects the womb to the vagina.

Most cervical cancers are linked to a common virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). In many people HPV causes no harm and clears naturally, but in some cases it can lead to abnormal cell changes in the cervix. Over time, these changes may develop into cancer if they are not detected and treated.

Because these changes often develop slowly, screening programmes are highly effective at identifying problems early.

Who’s most at risk and why

Cervical cancer is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 45, although it can occur at other ages.

Persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV is the main cause. HPV is very common and is usually spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact.

Other factors that may increase risk include smoking, a weakened immune system, or long-term use of certain hormonal contraceptives.

HPV vaccination has significantly reduced the risk of cervical cancer in younger generations.

Knowing the signs

In its early stages, cervical cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, the most common is unusual vaginal bleeding. This might happen between periods, after sex, or after menopause.

Some people notice changes in vaginal discharge or experience discomfort during sex. Pain in the lower back or pelvis may also occur in more advanced cases.

These symptoms can have many causes, but any unusual or persistent change should be discussed with a GP.

Diagnosis: Is it cancer?

Cervical screening is one of the most effective ways to detect early cell changes before cancer develops.

In the UK, screening is offered to people aged 25 to 64. During the test, a small sample of cells is taken from the cervix and checked for high-risk HPV. If HPV is present, the cells are examined more closely for any abnormal changes.

If further investigation is needed, a colposcopy may be arranged. This allows a specialist to examine the cervix using a magnifying instrument and take small tissue samples if required.

Imaging tests may also be used to determine the stage of the cancer if a diagnosis is confirmed.

What’s going to happen

If cervical cancer is diagnosed, your case will usually be reviewed by a multidisciplinary team that may include gynaecological oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and specialist nurses.

They will assess the stage of the cancer and your overall health before recommending the most appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment

Treatment depends on how early the cancer is detected and whether it has spread. In very early stages, abnormal cells may be removed during procedures that preserve most of the cervix. Surgery to remove the cervix or uterus may be recommended in some cases.

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are often used when the cancer is more advanced or when surgery is not the most suitable option.

Targeted treatments and combined therapies are also used to improve outcomes in certain cases.

Your medical team will explain the options available and support you in making decisions that suit your circumstances.

Prognosis

Cervical cancer is often very treatable when it is detected early.

Screening programmes allow abnormal cells to be identified before they become cancer, which has significantly reduced the number of cases in countries with established screening.

When cervical cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, treatment is usually very successful. Outcomes become more complex if the disease is found later, but advances in treatment continue to improve survival and quality of life.