Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer develops in the narrow part connecting the uterus to the vagina. The Canadian Cancer Society estimates that nearly 300 cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed each year in Quebec. In fact, it is the third most common form of cancer among Quebec women aged 25 to 44.

The main risk factor for cervical cancer is a persistent, high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Other risk factors include sexual activity at a young age, multiple sexual partners, and sexual relations with someone who has many sexual partners or is infected with HPV. The risk of developing cervical cancer is also higher in women who are not screened regularly, have a weakened immune system, or smoke.

Wearing a condom is strongly recommended, but does not fully protect against HPV infection. HPV testing and vaccination are the two best ways to prevent cervical cancer.

Why is screening important? Because, very often, women with cervical cancer have no symptoms at all. Some women may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, but this can also be caused by other health problems. Therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor as soon as abnormal vaginal bleeding occurs.

Cervical cancer screening detects two things: firstly, the presence of a persistent HPV infection and secondly, the presence of abnormalities (i.e., precancerous lesions) on the cervix caused by the virus. Most precancerous lesions disappear on their own, but some can develop into cancer if left untreated. Fortunately, the transformation of precancerous lesions into cancer occurs very slowly (from a few years to several decades). This is why regular screening allows precancerous lesions to be monitored or treated before they become cancerous.

The other main way of preventing cervical cancer is to get vaccinated against HPV, the primary risk factor for this cancer. Vaccines administered in Canada can prevent approximately 70% of cervical cancers and 60% of high-risk precancerous cervical lesions.