Cells on the surface of the cervix sometimes appear abnormal, but are not cancerous. It is thought that these abnormal changes are the first step in a slow series of changes that can lead to cervical cancer many years later. That is, some abnormal changes are pre-cancerous. Causes Certain risk factors have been identified that increase the chance that cells in the cervix will become abnormal or cancerous. There are many types of this virus.
Some types put women at greater risk than others.
Having had frequent sexual intercourse before age 18 Having multiple sex partners. The greater the number of partners, the greater the risk. HPV Smoking Being the daughter of a mother who took a drug known as DES during pregnancy. This drug was used from about 1940 to 1970, mostly to prevent miscarriage. Any abnormal pap test can be an early sign of cervical cancer.