Many times doctors can not explain why cancer occurs, but there are factors that increase the likelihood of this disease:
* Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). A virus that infects the cervix and is the main cause of cervical cancer. It is a sexually transmitted infection and can cause cancer or other verrucous lesions called condyloma
* Lack of regular Pap test. Cancer is more common in women who are not reviewed regularly, since this test can detect the presence of human papilloma virus and cancer cells early on to prevent cancer growth.
* Alterations in the immune system (natural defense system of the body). For example, women infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or medications that lower the body’s defenses.
* Age. Cancer usually occurs in women over 40 years.
* Sexual history. Women who have multiple sexual partners are at increased risk of developing this cancer.
* Smoking. Women with HPV infection and smoking are at increased risk of cancer.
* Use of contraceptives for a long time. Users of oral contraceptives for five years or more and who also have HPV have a higher risk of cancer.
* Number of children.
