Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
Different strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play an important role in the development of cervical cancer.
When exposed to HPV, the body’s immune system prevents the virus from causing harm. However, in a small percentage of people, the virus can survive for years and contribute to the process of turning some cervical cells into cancerous cells.
HPV vaccination and testing can reduce the risk of cervical cancer.