How Will HPV Vaccination Shape The Future Of Cervical Cancer?

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix. Risk factors for developing cervical cancer include human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero, having three or more full-term pregnancies, young age at first full-term pregnancy, smoking, and long-term use of oral contraceptives. In contrast, use of an intrauterine device (IUD) is associated with a decreased risk of cervical cancer.¹ HPV infection is the most important cervical cancer risk factor.