What To Know About HPV and Cervical Cancer in 2024

Although not all cervical cancer cases are linked directly to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, most cervical cancer is caused by HPV infection. HPV infection can cause mutations in the cells of the cervix, leading them to grow excessively. However, HPV is not the sole cause of cervical cancer. Several risk factors can contribute to cervical cancer risk. 

Cervical Cancer Rates in 2023

Cervical cancer is currently the 4th most common cancer among women worldwide. Most of these cases (90%) occur in low and middle-income countries. However, cervical cancer rates have decreased dramatically since the recent increase in HPV and cancer screening. In 2023, in the US, there were 13,960 estimated new cases, with 4,310 deaths in January 2023. 

Racial and Socioeconomic Disparities

Although overall cervical cancer rates have decreased, several racial and socioeconomic disparities exist. Specifically, according to the American Cancer Society, Hispanic women have the highest incidence of cervical cancer. These disparities are primarily due to a lack of access to screening and healthcare and not due to racial or genetic differences.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer occurs when the cells of the cervix begin to grow uncontrollably. The cervix connects the vagina and the uterus. The cells of the cervix usually will present as pre-cancerous before becoming cancerous. These pre-cancerous cells can be screened for by your doctor and are usually the following:

• Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)
• Squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL)
• Dysplasia

Types of Cervical Cancer 

There are two main classifications of cervical cancers: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. 90% of cervical cancers are squamous cell carincomas; these cancers originate from cells of the exocervix. On the other hand, adenocarincomas develop from glandular cells. Rarely some patients can present with a mixed adenosquamous carcinoma.