Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and a leading cause of death from genital malignancies. Approximately 5,00,000 new cancer cases are diagnosed every year from all over the world, with only a 40% survival chance. Awareness of cervical cancer has increased tenfold in recent years, but not many people are aware of its risk factors. Take a look at the most common ones:

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

A strain of HPV causes almost all new cases of cervical cancer. The disease spreads from skin-to-skin contact of genital areas or the usage of sex toys. Some types may cause genital warts in men and women, while others don’t exhibit any symptoms at all. You can minimize the risk of getting cervical cancer by getting vaccinated if you’re younger or obtain HPV immunization.

Sex

Practicing safe sex by using a condom may reduce your risk of getting HPV but won’t protect you completely. A condom only prevents skin-to-skin contact over a small area, but the human papillomavirus can infect broad regions of skin across the groin, thighs, and buttocks. It’s best to continue using a condom but understand that it is not HPV immune.

Smoking

Negative effects on smoking are well-known, but many people only associate it with lung cancer. Smoking can cause cancerous cell mutations throughout the body, including the cervix. You can decrease the risk of cervical cancer and many other diseases by not smoking. Talk to your doctor for a defined plan to help you kick the bud.

Birth control pills

Long-term use of birth control pills increases a woman’s risk of cervical cancer. Researchers are not exactly sure why, but there seems to be a correlation between the two. Talk to your healthcare worker about the risks and benefits of continuing birth control pills beyond certain years. This will enable you to make an informed decision and look for alternatives.

Immunosuppression

If you are diagnosed with HIV/AIDS or take medication that suppresses your immune system, you may be at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. If you have an autoimmune disorder or an organ transplant, you may be taking immunosuppressive medications. In this case, speak to your doctor on how frequently you should get checked for cervical cancer.

Chlamydia

Women with a current or previous chlamydia infection may be at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. Chlamydia is a common, sexually transmitted disease that often produces little to no symptoms. Do ask your gynecologist for a chlamydia test during your routine annual exam in case you suspect to have a bacterial infection.

Lifestyle factors

If you don’t eat enough vegetables and fruits, are obese, and have a family history of cervical cancer, you are more at risk of it. Try to maintain normal body weight and keep yourself fit. Specific lifestyle changes are all one needs to alter.