Cervical Cancer: Key Information
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. It is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when detected early. The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through intimate contact. Regular screening and vaccination play a crucial role in reducing the risk and ensuring early detection.
​
-
Develops in the cervix (lower part of the uterus)
-
Most commonly caused by persistent HPV infection
-
Highly preventable and treatable when detected early
Cervical Cancer: Key Information
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. It is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when detected early. The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through intimate contact. Regular screening and vaccination play a crucial role in reducing the risk and ensuring early detection.
​
-
Develops in the cervix (lower part of the uterus)
-
Most commonly caused by persistent HPV infection
-
Highly preventable and treatable when detected early
Risk Factors
Cervical cancer is strongly linked to HPV infection, but several other factors can increase the risk. Understanding these risks can help with prevention and early action.
​
• Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types
• Early sexual activity or multiple sexual partners
• Weakened immune system
• Smoking
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives
• Lack of regular screening (Pap smear tests)
Risk Factors
Cervical cancer is strongly linked to HPV infection, but several other factors can increase the risk. Understanding these risks can help with prevention and early action.
​
• Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types
• Early sexual activity or multiple sexual partners
• Weakened immune system
• Smoking
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives
• Lack of regular screening (Pap smear tests)
Symptoms
In its early stages, cervical cancer often shows no noticeable symptoms, which is why regular screening is essential. As the disease progresses, certain warning signs may appear.
​
-
Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause)
-
Unusual vaginal discharge
-
Pelvic pain or discomfort
-
Pain during intercourse
Stages
Cervical cancer is classified into stages based on how far it has spread. Early stages are often highly treatable, while advanced stages require more complex care.
​
-
Stage 1: Cancer confined to the cervix
-
Stage 2: Spread beyond the cervix but not to distant organs
-
Stage 3: Spread to surrounding tissues or pelvic wall
-
Stage 4: Spread to distant organs (advanced stage)
Stages
Cervical cancer is classified into stages based on how far it has spread. Early stages are often highly treatable, while advanced stages require more complex care.
​
-
Stage 1: Cancer confined to the cervix
-
Stage 2: Spread beyond the cervix but not to distant organs
-
Stage 3: Spread to surrounding tissues or pelvic wall
-
Stage 4: Spread to distant organs (advanced stage)
Diagnoses
Treatment
Early diagnosis greatly improves outcomes. Screening and diagnostic tests help identify abnormal changes before they develop into cancer.
​
• Pap smear test (detects abnormal cervical cells)
• HPV testing
• Colposcopy (closer examination of the cervix)
• Biopsy to confirm cancer
Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. A combination of therapies may be used to achieve the best outcome.
• Surgery (removal of cancerous tissue)
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted treatment options
Contact Us
CAN Head Office
90 John Meinert Street
Windhoek West, Namibia
Phone: +264 61 237 740
National Line Switchboard: +264 81 953 7740
Menu
Cancer Information
Support and Services
Get Involved
Research and Impact
News and Stories
Contact Us
Donate
CAN Erongo Centre
3 Ferdinand Stich Street
Swakopmund, Namibia
National Line: +264 81 953 7740 Option #7
Contact Us
Palliative Care Namibia
House Zietsman Windhoek
3 Jan Jonker Road, Klein Windhoek
National Line: +264 81 953 7740 • Option #2
House Johannesson Swakopmund
3 Ferdinand Stich Street
National Line: +264 81 953 7740 • Option #7
Contact Us
CAN Erongo Centre
3 Ferdinand Stich Street
Swakopmund, Namibia
National Line: +264 81 953 7740 Option #7
