Final answer:
The most important risk factor for cervical cancer is infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Other risk factors include smoking and a weakened immune system. Treatment options for cervical cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most important risk factor related to the development of cervical cancer is infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). More than 90 percent of cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV, which is a sexually transmitted virus. HPV infection can cause cervical cancer by interfering with normal cell division, leading to the formation of a tumor.
Other risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, a weakened immune system, use of birth control pills, becoming sexually active at a young age, and having many sexual partners. However, these risk factors are less important than HPV infection and are more likely to increase the risk of cervical cancer in individuals who are already infected with HPV. Treatment of cervical cancer generally includes surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.