Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Cancer of the Cervix
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The cervix is the opening between the vagina and the uterus. Cancer of the cervix is a malignant tumor on the cervix. Precancerous changes in the cells on the top layer of the cervix are an early sign that cervical cancer may develop.
What is going on in the body?
Cervical cancer is fairly common cancer of the reproductive system that occurs most often among women aged 40 to 55.
Even though the cervix is located within a woman's vagina, its cells act very much like skin cells. These cells are exposed to toxins, viruses, and bacteria that may cause abnormal changes called cervical dysplasia.
Each stage of cervical dysplasia is judged by the thickness of the layer of abnormal cells. The earliest change that can be seen with a microscope is called mild dysplasia. If not treated, these precancerous changes may become moderate and then severe. The fourth, most severe, stage of dysplasia is called carcinoma in situ. After this occurs, cancer cells may invade deeper layers of the cervix or spread to nearby sites. At that point, a woman has what is called invasive cervical cancer.
What are the causes and risks of the disease?
No one knows exactly what causes cancer of the cervix. Certain health problems, lifestyle choices, and other factors may increase a woman's risk for developing it, including the following: