Anything that adds to a person’s chances of developing a certain health condition is known as a risk factor. Cervical cancer develops in the lower half of the uterus, that is, in the cervix. This cancer exhibits no signs in its early stage, and symptoms like vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and a watery-bloody discharge develop in the advanced stages. Risk factors ever so often impact the progress of cancer but do not directly cause it. Let’s understand the common risk factors of cervical cancer:

1. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection:  An HPV infection is the most common and significant of all the risk factors of cervical cancer. A lot of people get affected by HPV once they become sexually active, but the infection is cured on its own in most people. Among more than 90 unique kinds of HPV, HPV16 and HPV18 are two of the most common types that cause cervical cancer. Indulging in sexual activity with multiple partners or becoming sexually active at a young age makes one more susceptible to getting infected with HPV.
2. Immune system deficiency:  Women with a weaker immune system are more prone to getting cervical cancer. A strong immune system slows the spread and growth of cancerous cells, and in some cases, even destroys them. Organ transplantation, treatment for other forms of cancers, HIV, and medication that suppress the immune system are some factors that can weaken one’s immune system. Due to weakened immunity, the body is unable to combat cervical cancer at an early stage.
3. Smoking:  Another common risk factor for the development of cervical cancer is smoking. Cigarettes contain cancer-causing chemicals, and smoking is harmful to both active as well as passive smokers. Studies have revealed that women who do not smoke are less likely to develop cervical cancer. Smoking is considered to harm the chromosomes of the cells of the cervix, leading to cervical cancer. Besides, the habit also weakens the immune system and reduces its ability to fight the disease.
4. Oral contraceptives:  Some studies have shown that prolonged consumption of oral contraceptives increases the risk of cervical cancer. However, this risk reduces when the consumption of these pills is stopped. It’s recommended to always consult a doctor before taking these medicines, especially in the long term.
5. Multiple deliveries : Women who have delivered more than three times are more likely to develop this form of cancer. This is because they are highly susceptible to developing an HPV infection due to increased sexual activity. Also, women undergo a lot of hormonal changes during pregnancy, which makes them more vulnerable to cancer. Repeated pregnancies also affect the immune system, increasing the risk of cervical cancer.

These are some of the most common risk factors of cervical cancer that one should be aware of and take necessary precautions to reduce the risk.