Final answer:
The risk factors for cervical cancer include HPV infection, unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, young age at first sexual activity, failure to receive the HPV vaccine, compromised immune system, and smoking.
Step-by-step explanation:
Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a significant health concern with several established risk factors. One of the primary risk factors is infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. Other risk factors include:
- Unprotected sex, which increases the likelihood of HPV transmission.
- Having multiple sexual partners, which can raise the chances of HPV infection.
- Engaging in sexual activity at a young age when the cells of the cervix are not fully mature, potentially making them more susceptible to HPV.
- Failure to receive the HPV vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing the strains of HPV most frequently associated with cervical cancer.
- A compromised immune system, such as from HIV infection, which can make it more difficult for the body to clear HPV infections.
- Smoking, with studies showing that the risk of developing cervical cancer is doubled for smokers.
Other factors, such as long-term use of birth control pills and becoming sexually active at a young age, can also contribute to the risk of developing cervical cancer, especially in individuals already infected with HPV. The usage of Pap smears for early detection and the HPV vaccine for prevention are critical preventative measures against cervical cancer.