Basic information about this disease.

Cancer of the Cervix

Nearly 3,000 new cases occur every year in the UK.

Cervical cancer causes 1,098 deaths each year in the UK. Most deaths occur in women over 40, especially in those who have not had regular cervical smears.

It's the second most common cancer in women under the age of 35 in the UK.

There is a strong link between infection with a virus called the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). In fact the link between HPV and cervical cancer is stronger than the link between that of tobacco and lung cancer! Human Papilloma Virus DNA is present in 99.7% of all cervical cancers.

Up to 80% of sexually active women will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives. Condoms reduce the risk of infection but are not totally protective. A new vaccine against HPV will become available to offer further protection.

Having regular cervical smears is vital to detecting cells in the cervix that could eventually turn cancerous. The aim of the smear test is to detect these abnormal cells as early as possible.

If you experience any abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge see your GP. 'Abnormal bleeding' is bleeding between periods, bleeding after intercourse or bleeding after the menopause.

You can get more information from these resources:
Cervical cancer information from NHS Direct
BUPA Factsheet on cervical cancer
Web search using Kosmix.com


IMPORTANT NOTICE : This content is from the Dr Chris Steele personal archive and is provided for convenience only. Information contained here may no longer agree with the most up to date medical advice. Please check with a medical professional before taking any action.

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