Who usually gets cervical cancer? Who is most at risk for cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), which spreads through sexual contact.

There are many types of HPV, but some are more likely to cause cervical cancer than others. These are called high-risk HPV types. Anyone who has ever had sexual activity can get HPV, but some factors can increase the risk of getting a persistent HPV infection that can lead to cervical cancer.

These factors include:

• Having sex at an early age
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Having other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke
• Having a weakened immune system
• Using oral contraceptives for a long time
• Having many children

Cervical cancer can be prevented by getting vaccinated against HPV, having regular Pap tests to detect abnormal cells in the cervix, and treating any precancerous lesions. If cervical cancer is found early, it can be cured with surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.