What it is
Cervical cancer is a disease in which cells in the cervix grow out of control. The cervix connects the vagina (birth canal) to the upper part of the uterus. The uterus (or womb) is where a baby grows during pregnancy.
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Anyone with a cervix is at risk for cervical cancer. It occurs most often in people over age 30. Long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus that is passed from one person to another during sex. At least half of sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives, but few will get cervical cancer.
Screening tests and the HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer. When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life.
