Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix. Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die and new cells take their place. Sometimes, this process goes wrong. New cells form when the body does not need them, and old cells do not die when they should. These extra cells can form a mass of tissue called a tumor, which can be cancer.

The cervix is the narrow, lower part of the uterus (where the baby grows when a woman is pregnant). The cervix is made up of cells that are easily tested with a Pap test.

Cervical cancer usually develops slowly. Before cancer appears, the cervix goes through slight changes where cells that are not normal begin to appear. Later, these abnormal cells can become cancer cells and start to grow and spread.

Thanks to modern medicine, cervical cancer can be treated if it is found early. In many cases, cancer can be prevented altogether.

"If I have no symptoms, why should I go see my doctor?"

Doctor Nguyen: "Many women may have cervical cancer without knowing it because there are no symptoms at first. I tell all women to make an appointment to get a Pap test even if they have no symptoms. Remember, if it is detected early, cervical cancer can be cured almost 100 percent of the time."

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