Cervical Cancer
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Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. Cancer is always named for the part of the body where it starts, even if it spreads to other body parts later.
When cancer starts in the cervix, it is called cervical cancer. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus. The cervix connects the vagina (birth canal) to the upper part of the uterus. The uterus (or womb) is where a baby grows when a woman is pregnant.
Cervical cancer is highly preventable in most Western countries because screening tests and a vaccine to prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are available. When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life.
Next: Basic Information
Featured Resources
Actress Cote de Pablo discusses her cervical cancer scare and has a message for women in this video.
Test your Inside Knowledge about cervical cancer with this quiz!
Our cervical cancer fact sheet describes cervical cancer symptoms, risk factors, and screening options.
Cervical cancer can be prevented. Listen as two friends—one a doctor—talk about symptoms and screening tests.
The Gynecologic Cancer Curriculum provides continuing education (CE) for primary health care providers.
In this video, a cervical cancer survivor shares how she protects her children from HPV-related cancers.
- Page last reviewed: May 18, 2017
- Page last updated: May 18, 2017
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