How HPV Causes Cervical Cancer: What You Need to Know

Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable yet prevalent cancers affecting women in Singapore and globally. While many are aware of the disease, fewer understand the root cause: Human Papillomavirus (HPV). In fact, persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV types is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Understanding how HPV leads to cervical cancer is crucial for prevention, early detection, and taking control of your reproductive health.

HPV Screening In Singapore

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What Is HPV?

HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus, a common sexually transmitted infection with over 100 different strains. Some types cause genital warts, while others can lead to various cancers, including cervical, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

Most HPV infections are harmless and clear up on their own. However, persistent infection with high-risk HPV types, especially types 16 and 18, can cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix. These changes may develop into cervical cancer if not detected and treated early.

The Link Between HPV and Cervical Cancer

HPV infects the squamous cells on the surface of the cervix. In most cases, the immune system eliminates the virus naturally. However, if the virus remains in the body for years, it can interfere with the normal function of cervical cells.

Here’s what happens:

The virus integrates into the DNA of cervical cells.
It triggers uncontrolled cell growth by disrupting tumour-suppressor proteins.
These abnormal cells accumulate and can eventually become precancerous lesions.
Without intervention, they may develop into invasive cervical cancer over time.

The process is gradual and can take 10 to 15 years from the time of infection. This long development period highlights the importance of regular HPV screening and Pap smears to detect early changes in cervical tissue.

High-Risk HPV Types You Should Know About

Only certain strains of HPV are considered high risk for cervical cancer. These include:

HPV 16 and HPV 18: Responsible for about 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide.
HPV 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58: These also carry a significant cancer risk and are common in Asia, including Singapore.

HPV 6 and 11 are low-risk types. They do not cause cancer but can result in genital warts.

Why Some HPV Infections Don’t Go Away

In most people, the immune system clears HPV within one to two years. However, in others, the virus persists. This could be due to:

Weakened immune function
Smoking, which impairs cervical immunity
Long-term use of oral contraceptives
Having multiple sexual partners without protection

A persistent HPV infection increases the likelihood of developing cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)—precancerous changes in the cervix.

How Can You Prevent Cervical Cancer from HPV?

HPV Screening In Singapore

Preventing cervical cancer starts with understanding and reducing your risk of HPV infection. Key prevention strategies include:

1. HPV Vaccination

The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in the fight against cervical cancer. It protects against the most dangerous high-risk HPV types. In Singapore, the vaccine is part of the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule and is recommended for females aged 9 to 26.

2. Regular Cervical Screening

Pap smear tests and HPV DNA testing are essential for detecting early cervical changes. Singapore’s national cervical screening programme recommends:

Women aged 25 to 29: Pap smear every 3 years
Women aged 30 to 69: HPV test every 5 years

Early detection through screening can prevent the progression to cervical cancer.

3. Safe Sexual Practices

Using condoms and limiting your number of sexual partners can reduce the risk of contracting high-risk HPV strains.

4. Boosting Your Immune Health

A strong immune system can help clear HPV naturally. Avoid smoking, maintain a healthy diet, and manage stress to support immune function.

What Are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?

One of the dangers of cervical cancer is that it often presents no symptoms in the early stages. However, signs to watch out for include:

Irregular vaginal bleeding (especially after sex or between periods)
Unusual vaginal discharge
Pelvic pain
Pain during intercourse

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms: Connect with a Gynaecologist Today

Understanding how HPV causes cervical cancer empowers women to make informed decisions about their health. While HPV infection is common, persistent infection with high-risk strains can be dangerous. Fortunately, with HPV vaccination, regular screening, and healthy lifestyle habits, cervical cancer is now one of the most preventable cancers.

If you’re a woman in Singapore, speak with your gynaecologist about getting screened or vaccinated. Click the button below to connect with a gynaecologist for personalised guidance.

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HPV Screening In Singapore

Back To: Women’s Sexual Health