latent period of cervical cancer

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on November 05, 2024
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The latency period for cervical cancer is generally five to ten years. The occurrence of cervical cancer is mainly due to exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV) in the body. Typically, this virus persists and replicates within the body, leading to cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. From the initial virus infection to the development of cervical cancer, it usually takes a vast majority about five to ten years. Furthermore, different types of virus infections lead to varying probabilities of cervical cancer. In general, if the infection involves types 16 and 18 of the virus, the likelihood of developing cervical cancer is particularly high. Therefore, if one is infected with HPV types 16 and 18, it is crucial to undergo a cervical TCT test. If necessary, a cervical biopsy is generally performed under colposcopy, followed by treatment based on the examination results. Thus, to prevent cervical cancer, it is essential for women to undergo regular annual cervical cancer screening.

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Causes of cervical cancer

The causes of cervical cancer are closely related to several factors. Firstly, infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) is highly related and is the fundamental cause of precancerous lesions and cervical cancer. Secondly, although HPV DNA is not detected in the tumor tissues of a minority of cases, particularly among older patients, epidemiological surveys indicate that early childbirth and multiple childbearing are closely related to the incidence of cervical cancer. Thirdly, it has been found that the incidence of cervical cancer in women is related to contact with high-risk men, such as those with penile cancer, prostate cancer, or those whose ex-wives had cervical cancer. Fourthly, smoking has a certain relationship with the incidence of cervical cancer as it can inhibit the body's immune function. Alcohol consumption, irregular diet, and lifestyle also have certain relationships with the incidence of cervical cancer.

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How to check for cervical cancer if unmarried

For unmarried women, if there is no sexual activity, they generally do not need to undergo cervical cancer screening. This is because the cause of cervical cancer has been clearly established as being caused by HPV virus infection, mainly transmitted through sexual contact. Therefore, unmarried women without sexual activity might not consider cervical cancer screening necessary. However, it is still recommended for unmarried women who are sexually active to undergo cervical cancer screening, especially if they started sexual activity at a young age and have multiple sexual partners. The screening generally includes HPV testing, cytology (TCT), and colposcopy.

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Cervical cancer treatment

For the treatment of cervical cancer, it should be based on the patient's physical condition, nutritional status, pathological staging, and pathological type to develop a comprehensive treatment plan, rather than a general, single approach. The treatment principle for cervical cancer mainly involves surgery and radiotherapy, supported by a comprehensive treatment plan that includes chemotherapy. However, the treatment plan should be based on clinical staging, age, overall health, and consider the level of technology and equipment available to formulate a suitable treatment plan. It is important to focus on individualized treatment and the method of initial treatment. Therefore, each person is different, and treatments vary from person to person and disease to disease.

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Precursors of cervical cancer

The occurrence and development of the cervix is a process from quantitative to qualitative change, evolving gradually to a sudden shift over a long period. The precursor might be the heterotypic zone of the cervix, which is a common site for abnormalities. During the formation of this heterotypic zone, cervical epithelial metaplasia is relatively active, and, compounded by infection with the human papillomavirus and further stimulated by external carcinogens, immature or proliferative squamous epithelial cells may exhibit gradual changes or atypical hyperplasia, potentially leading to sarcomatoid changes in the cervical epithelium. This might be a precursor sign.

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How is cervical cancer screened?

Cervical cancer screening is a routine gynecological examination item for married women and women who are sexually active. Cervical cancer screening includes TCT (ThinPrep Cytologic Test) and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) tests. The TCT is a cytological examination of the cervix to determine if there are any cervical lesions based on cell morphology. HPV is the human papillomavirus, and its presence is a high-risk factor for cervical cancer. Therefore, cervical cancer screening consists of both TCT and HPV tests. If abnormalities are found in either test, a cervical biopsy may be necessary to confirm the presence of cervical lesions. It is best to conduct these tests between three to seven days after the end of menstruation.