Cervical cancer is cancer of the neck of the womb (cervix). Half of all cancers of the female reproductive system are in the cervix.

What causes cervical cancer?

Research has shown that carrying the human papillomavirus, which can cause genital warts, is the greatest risk factor for cervical cancer. There are other risk factors:

• Having had multiple sexual partners or a male partner who had multiple partners
• Having sexual intercourse before age 18
• Being HIV-positive
• A history of abnormal smear test results
• or A history of cancer of the vagina or uterus
• A smoking habit

How can you detect Cervical Cancer?

A cervical smear test is a procedure to detect any abnormalities in and around the cervix. The National Cervical Screening Programme recommends that young females at the age of 25 years and over and females that are 5 years sexually active should start getting regular cervical smear screening.

To find out more on cervical smear screening please contact the Student Health Centre or your GP/ Family Planning Centre.