Final answer:
The link between sex and cervical cancer was initially made through observing that cervical cancer often occured in those with sexually related risk factors, especially HPV, a sexually transmitted infection. HPV's disruption of normal cell processes in the cervix, combined with other risk factors like smoking and early sexual activity, significantly increases chances of developing cervical cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The initial link between sex and cervical cancer was noted due to the high prevalence of cervical cancer cases in individuals exposed to certain risk factors related to sexual activity. Extensive research has confirmed that more than 90 percent of cervical cancer cases can be attributed at least in part to the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. The connection was further reinforced by the discovery that other risk factors, such as smoking, a compromised immune system, and early onset of sexual activity, could exacerbate the development of cervical cancer in those already infected with HPV.
HPV disrupts the normal cell cycle and can allow for the uncontrolled growth of mutated cells, leading to the formation of a tumor in the cervix. The presence of HPV is a significant factor as it can manipulate infected cells to bypass the normal checks that prevent the division of cells with mutations. This process eventually leads to the development of cervical cancer. Preventative measures, such as receiving the HPV vaccine and getting regular Pap tests, are critical in reducing the incidence of this cancer.