Final answer:
The cervix is located at the lower end of the uterus and cervical cancer occurs when its cells grow abnormally. It is most commonly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and risk factors include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and smoking.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cervix and Cervical Cancer
The cervix is located at the lower end of the uterus, connecting it to the vagina. It is a small, cylindrical structure made up of muscle and lined with cervical cells. Cervical cancer occurs when these cells grow abnormally and invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.
Cervical cancer is most commonly caused by a sexually transmitted infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Risk factors for cervical cancer include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, not receiving the HPV vaccine, a compromised immune system, smoking, and a first sexual experience at a young age.