The causes of cervical cancer are not well known. However, certain factors are suspected in the development of the disease. Most common risk factors of cervical cancer include:
- HPV infection – persistent HPV infections mainly groups HPV16 and HPV18 are the major contributors of occurrence of cervical cancer;
- smoking
- many or frequent change of sexual partners
- exposure “in the uterus” to DES (diethylstilbestrol)
- early sexual intercourse, principally before age 18;
- alteration of the membrane lining the cervix due to hormonal change or cigarette smoke
- age – the risk of developing cancer of the cervix is rare before age 25 years, but the risk increases from 51 years
- sexually transmitted diseases (STDs ) – some STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV / AIDS can contribute to the development of cervical cancer;
- Weakened immune system – your immune system protects your body against infection and development of other pathologies. Having a weekend immune system facilitates the development of a variety diseases including cervical cancer.