Causes of Cervical Cancer and Risk Factors You Need to Know

Cervical cancer is formed when cells in the cervix or cervix develop into malignant. The cause of cervical cancer is uncertain. However, this disease is closely related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. In addition, the appearance of cervical cancer is also associated with heredity and sexually transmitted diseases. According to data from the World Health Organization or WHO, cervical cancer or cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in women. In Indonesia alone, cervical cancer is ranked second for the type of cancer most commonly found in women, after breast cancer. Considering this disease is very deadly, every woman needs to know what risk factors can make her more susceptible to cervical cancer. This is important to prevent the appearance of cervical cancer.

Risk Factors and Causes of Cervical Cancer

Risk factors are defined as things that can increase a person's chance of contracting the disease, which in this case is cervical cancer. It should be understood that someone who has risk factors does not mean it is certain to get cervical cancer. This only indicates that he has a greater chance of developing cervical cancer. The following are some risk factors for cervical cancer:

1. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV virus infection. This virus can infect cells on the surface of the skin and genitals, anus, and mouth and throat. A woman can become infected with HPV from risky sexual behavior. For example often changing sexual partners since a young age, or having sex without a condom.

2. Suffering from sexually transmitted diseases

Several studies have shown that the risk of cervical cancer is higher in women who have had sexually transmitted diseases, such as genital warts, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Women who are suffering from sexually transmitted diseases also have a high risk for cervical cancer. This is because HPV infection can occur together with sexually transmitted diseases.

3. Unhealthy lifestyle

Women who are overweight and rarely consume fruit and vegetables are thought to be at high risk of cervical cancer. This risk will increase if the woman also has a smoking habit. Chemicals in tobacco are believed to damage DNA cells and cause cervical cancer. Not only that, smoking also makes the immune system weaker, making it less effective in fighting HPV infection.

4. A weak immune system

Women whose immune system is weakened, for example due to HIV / AIDS or undergoing treatment to suppress endurance, such as cancer treatment and autoimmune diseases, are more at risk for HPV infection which is the cause of cervical cancer.

5. Using birth control pills

Numerous studies show that the use of oral contraceptives (birth control pills) for a long time can increase the risk of cervical cancer. As a safer alternative to prevent cervical cancer, choose another method of contraception, such as an IUD or spiral KB. To choose the right type of contraception and suitable, you should consult a gynecologist further.

6. Pregnant at a young age and have several times been pregnant and giving birth

Pregnant for the first time when you are less than 17 years old can make a woman more susceptible to cervical cancer. Women who have been pregnant and give birth more than 3 times are also thought to be more at risk of cervical cancer. According to research, a weakened immune system and hormonal changes during pregnancy can make a woman more susceptible to HPV infection.

7. Never take diethylstilbestrol (DES)

DES is a hormonal drug given to women to prevent miscarriage. Pregnant women who take this drug have a greater risk for cervical cancer. This drug can also increase the risk of cervical cancer in the female fetus it contains.

8. Hereditary factors

A woman has a higher risk for cervical cancer, if there is a family of women who have been diagnosed with a similar disease. Not yet known exactly what underlies this, but allegedly related to genetic factors. To reduce the risk of causing cervical cancer, you need to adopt a healthy lifestyle in everyday life and stay away from risky sexual behavior. Do not forget to get an HPV vaccination to prevent cervical cancer, and undergo screening or early detection of cervical cancer with a pap smear or IVA test. These precautions can be taken when consulting a doctor. All of these preventive measures are important because generally cervical cancer does not cause symptoms at an early stage and only appears when the cancer enters an advanced stage.