Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects cells of the cervix.
Cervical cancer is the 10th most common female cancer in Singapore. Every year, more than 200 women in Singapore are diagnosed with cervical cancer. High-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) cause most cervical cancers. HPV can be transmitted through sexual intercourse or close genital contact.
Cervical cancer is a highly preventable cancer, because it can be detected in the pre-cancerous stages through screening tests (e.g., Pap smear or HPV test). HPV vaccines can also help to protect against HPV infection, reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
The two most common types of cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
Squamous cell carcinoma: This type begins in the thin, flat cells lining the outer part of the cervix. It is the most common type of cervical cancer, accounting for the majority of cases.
Adenocarcinoma: This type starts in the glandular cells of the cervix, which produce mucus. Although less common than squamous cell carcinoma, it can be more challenging to detect.
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