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White and Teal Ribbon · Awareness month: January

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix and can develop without early symptoms. Learn about its main types, signs and risk factors, how screening can help, and the research working toward better care.

Understand cervical cancerNFCR research on cervical cancer
New invasive cervical cancer cases expected in the U.S. in 2026
13,490
U.S. cervical cancer deaths expected in 2026
4,200
Age to begin routine cervical screening for people at average risk
25
Prevention, early detection & screening

Know the risks. Recognize the signs.

Understand risk factors, possible warning signs and when to seek medical advice.

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About

What Cervical Cancer Is

At NFCR, we believe understanding cancer is an important part of fighting it.

Cervical cancer begins in the cervix, the opening between the vagina and uterus. Most cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a virus, not a type of cervical cancer. Persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV types can cause changes in cervical cells that may develop into cancer. Most people with HPV do not develop cervical cancer.

Vaccination and regular screening offer important opportunities to prevent disease. Screening can identify changes before cancer develops, even when you feel well. If you have been diagnosed, understanding the cell type and extent of your cancer helps you prepare for treatment discussions.

The cells where the cancer begins

Types of Cervical Cancer

The two main types of cervical cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. These names describe the cells in which the cancer begins:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma

    Begins in the thin, flat cells covering the outer part of the cervix. This is the most common type.

  • Adenocarcinoma

    Begins in the glandular cells of the cervical canal, which produce mucus.

Understanding your full diagnosis: The cell type is one part of the diagnosis. Ask your care team to explain your pathology report and stage, including whether the cancer has spread. A screening result that shows abnormal cells is not the same as a confirmed diagnosis of invasive cancer.

Behind every number is a person

By the numbers

These figures describe U.S. disease estimates, the main cell types and screening guidance. They measure different things and cannot predict an individual outcome.

  • 13,490New invasive cervical cancer cases expected in the U.S. in 2026
  • 4,200U.S. deaths from cervical cancer expected in 2026
  • 80–90%Approximate share of cervical cancers that are squamous cell cancers
  • 10–20%Approximate share of cervical cancers that are adenocarcinomas
  • 25Age at which routine cervical screening begins for people at average risk
  • 5 yearsRoutine primary HPV screening interval for people at average risk

U.S. estimates for 2026 · Source: American Cancer Society

Recognizing possible cervical cancer symptoms

Signs & Symptoms

Early cervical cancer may cause no symptoms. Report unusual changes to a healthcare professional rather than waiting for your next screening appointment.

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding

    Bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause should be assessed.

  • Unusual discharge

    A change in vaginal discharge is another possible sign.

  • Pelvic pain or pain during sex

    Persistent pain deserves a conversation with your doctor.

  • Urinary or bowel changes

    Difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or problems having a bowel movement can occur.

  • Leg swelling

    Swelling can be a sign of more advanced disease.

These symptoms can have other causes. A healthcare professional can assess what is happening and explain any tests you need.

Understanding cervical cancer risk factors

Risk Factors & Prevention

Persistent infection with high-risk HPV is the main risk factor for cervical cancer. Other factors can also affect risk.

  • HPV infection

    Persistent infection with certain high-risk types can cause cervical cell changes that may develop into cancer.

  • Smoking and immune health

    Smoking and a weakened immune system can increase risk.

  • Family and medical history

    Family history and certain past exposures may be relevant to your care.

Reducing your cervical cancer risk

Steps that can reduce risk

  • HPV vaccination

    Ask whether vaccination is appropriate. It can prevent infections with HPV types linked to cervical cancer but does not treat an existing infection.

  • Regular screening

    Vaccination does not replace cervical screening. Ask which test and schedule apply to you.

  • Smoking and HPV exposure

    Avoid smoking. Condoms can reduce HPV exposure but do not provide complete protection.

Talk with your healthcare professional about your history and access to vaccination and screening.

How cervical cancer is found

Screening & Diagnosis

Cervical screening looks for HPV infection or abnormal cells before symptoms appear. Routine screening begins at age 25 for people at average risk; the appropriate test and schedule depend on your history and the tests available.

  1. HPV testing

    Looks for infection with high-risk HPV types. A primary HPV test every five years is a preferred routine screening option for people at average risk.

  2. Pap testing

    Examines cervical cells for abnormal changes. Your clinician can explain when this test is appropriate and how often it should be done.

  3. Follow-up after an abnormal result

    An abnormal result does not necessarily mean cancer. Ask which follow-up tests or procedures are needed and what they will clarify.

  4. Understanding a cancer diagnosis

    If cancer is found, review the pathology report with your doctor and ask about the cell type and stage. These findings guide treatment discussions.

New symptoms deserve assessment between scheduled screenings.

Exploring cervical cancer treatment

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cervical cancer, your health and your preferences. Ask your care team to explain the goal of each option and how it may affect daily life.

  • Surgery

    May be used to remove cancerous tissue.

  • Radiation and chemotherapy

    These approaches may be used as part of a treatment plan, depending on the diagnosis.

  • Immunotherapy and targeted treatment

    Some treatments help the immune system attack cancer or interfere with processes cancer needs to grow. An anti-VEGF therapy combined with chemotherapy was approved in 2014 for certain persistent, recurrent or metastatic cervical cancers.

Ask whether a clinical trial or second opinion is appropriate. Research studies test new treatments or new ways to use existing ones; eligibility depends on the study and your diagnosis.

After a cervical cancer diagnosis

What Happens After Diagnosis?

A diagnosis brings information and decisions that may take time to understand. Start with the name and stage of the cancer, then ask your care team to explain the proposed plan in manageable steps.

Cervical Cancer — A few steps can help

A few steps can help

  • Ask for the full cell type and stage of your cervical cancer.
  • Review your pathology report and test results with your doctor.
  • Discuss the purpose, benefits and side effects of each option.
  • Ask how treatment may affect your daily life and personal priorities.
  • Discuss whether a clinical trial or second opinion may help.
  • Bring a trusted person and keep questions, reports and notes together.

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Researchers in a lab examining a sample
NFCR research on cervical cancer

The Future of Cervical Cancer Research

Progress in cervical cancer involves preventing more cases and improving care when cancer develops. Research into how tumors obtain a blood supply has already helped create a treatment option for certain advanced cervical cancers. Further work seeks to understand cancer biology and develop more effective ways to detect and treat disease.

What NFCR Is Doing

We supported Harold Dvorak’s research into VEGF, a protein involved in the formation of tumor blood vessels. His discovery helped establish the scientific basis for anti-angiogenic therapies, including treatment used for certain advanced cervical cancers. Our cervical cancer portfolio also features Paul Fisher and Webster Cavenee, whose broader studies examine tumor detection, treatment and the genetic mechanisms of cancer.

Year of Dvorak’s VEGF discovery
1983
Year an anti-VEGF therapy with chemotherapy was approved for certain advanced cervical cancers
2014
Funding period for Dvorak’s broader research
1980–2016

The scientists working on this cancer

Meet current and past-supported scientists in our cervical cancer portfolio. Their work includes research specific to this disease and broader studies of cancer biology and treatment.

Paul Fisher, M.Ph., Ph.D.

Virginia Commonwealth University

Develops experimental approaches that combine cancer detection, treatment and monitoring. Studies in prostate cancer models explore approaches with potential applications across solid tumors.

Learn about Paul Fisher’s research

Webster Cavenee, Ph.D.

Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research

Studies the genetic changes that influence tumor development, progression and treatment response. His work emphasizes central nervous system tumors and the genetic mechanisms that shape cancer biology.

Learn about Webster Cavenee’s research

Harold F. Dvorak, M.D.

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Discovered VEGF, helping explain how tumors develop a blood supply. This foundational research contributed to the development of anti-angiogenic therapies used in several cancers, including certain cervical cancers. We supported his research from 1980 to 2016.

Learn about Harold F. Dvorak’s research

Research makes cures possible

Every new discovery has the potential to change what we know about cancer — how it begins, how it spreads, how it can be detected, and how it can be treated.

Your support helps fund scientists working across cancer types to turn promising discoveries into life-saving options for patients.

Prefer to speak with someone? Call us to donate — 1-800-321-CURE.

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