Which is the primary risk factor for developing cervical cancer?

• A. Chlamydia infection
• B. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• C. Smoking
• D. Family history

Answer: (B)

The primary risk factor for developing cervical cancer is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is a group of more than 200 related viruses, with certain strains—particularly HPV types 16 and 18—being responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. The virus is often transmitted through sexual contact, making sexual behavior a significant factor in the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Once infected, persistence of high-risk HPV types can lead to cellular changes in the cervix, known as dysplasia, which may progress to cervical cancer over time if not detected and treated. This makes it critical for women to undergo regular screening, such as Pap smears and HPV testing, to catch any precancerous changes early on.

While other factors, such as chlamydia infection, smoking, and family history, can contribute to risk, they are not as directly linked to the development of cervical cancer as HPV. Chlamydia is associated with other reproductive issues, smoking may exacerbate the risk of cancer in general, and family history can increase susceptibility to many cancers, but none of these are as singularly significant as HPV in the context of cervical cancer risk.