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Cervical cancer develops gradually, through a series of changes in the cells of the cervix that usually unfold over many years. Understanding this process helps explain why screening and vaccination are so effective.
How Cervical Cancer Develops
1. HPV infection begins the process
Most cervical cancers start with a long‑term infection from high‑risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is very common, and in most people the body clears it naturally. The problem arises when a high‑risk HPV infection persists.
2. Persistent HPV causes cell changes
When HPV stays in the body, it can begin to alter the DNA of cervical cells. These early changes are not cancer—they are called abnormal cells or precancerous changes and in medical report are referred to as ‘dyskaryosis’.
3. Precancerous changes progress slowly
Over time, these these abnormal cells may abnormal cells may develop into more serious changes in the tissue of the cervix. These are known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). CIN has different grades (CIN1, CIN2, CIN3), reflecting worsening degree of abnormalities in the tissue of the cervix.
4. If untreated, precancer can become cancer
If high‑grade precancerous cells are not detected and treated, they may eventually become cervical cancer. This transition from precancerous cells to cancer typically takes 10–15 years, sometimes longer. This is the opportunity window that is available for women to detect, mount surveillance and stop the precancerous cells ever progressing to cervical cancer. This surveillance is carried out through regular and simple measures. Therefore, regular screening is so powerful.
5. Cancer begins and spread
Once cancer forms in the cervix, it can grow into surrounding tissues and in advanced stages, spread to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment cures the cancer entirely and prevents spread of the disease.