(HealthDay News) -- The most common cause of cervical cancer is infection with the human papillomavirus. Before cancer develops in the cervix, cervical cells begin to develop abnormally -- a process known as dysplasia. These abnormal cells can be detected by a test called a Pap smear.
The U.S. National Cancer Institute lists these risk factors for developing cervical cancer:
- Not having regular Pap smears.
- Abnormal Pap results.
- Having sex at a young age.
- Having many sexual partners.
- Giving birth to many children.
- Smoking.
- Taking oral contraceptives.
- Having a weakened immune system.