World Cancer Day 2025: Cervical cancer is primarily linked to long-term infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes abnormal cell growth in the cervix. Our lifestyle choices significantly influence the risk of developing this cancer. In a chat with Lifestyle Magazine, Dr. Shriniwas Kulkarni, a Consultant Medical Oncologist at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital in Hadapsar, Pune, mentioned, “While HPV infection is the main culprit behind this disease, a person's lifestyle also plays a crucial role. Since cervical cancer continues to be a major health issue in the country, making changes to these lifestyle factors can help lower the risk.”

Food and eating habits:

Focusing on a diet packed with fruits and veggies can help lower the risk of cervical cancer. Foods loaded with antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, play a key role in protecting our cells. On the flip side, if someone’s diet is heavy on processed and red meats while missing out on those vitamins, their chances of developing cervical cancer go up.

Smoking:

Smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer in people. Women who smoke tend to have cervical mucus issues, and the harmful substances in cigarettes can harm the genes in cervical cells. For female smokers, the likelihood of getting cervical cancer is twice as high compared to those who don’t smoke.

Sexual and reproductive activities:

When it comes to cervical cancer risk, starting sexual activity early and having multiple partners really matter. These things increase the likelihood of getting human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the main cause of cervical cancer. Plus, women who use birth control pills for a long time—especially five years or more—along with those other factors, have an even greater risk.

Obesity:

Obesity is linked to a higher chance of getting cervical cancer. Extra fat can influence inflammation and hormone levels, which might harm cervical cells. So, it's a good idea to manage your weight by eating healthier and staying active.

Alcohol consumption:

Drinking too much alcohol can mess with your immune system, making it harder for your body to fend off HPV infections, which could raise the chances of developing cervical cancer.

Physical activity:

Staying active can lower the chances of getting cervical cancer. Working out keeps your weight in check, cuts down on inflammation, and boosts your immune system.

Exposure to environmental and workplace factors:

Being around certain chemicals and dust can up the chances of getting cervical cancer. Women in jobs where they're exposed to these hazards should take safety precautions and get regular check-ups.

Here are some tips to keep in mind for prevention:

HPV vaccination: Right now, there are HPV vaccines out there that are suggested for both girls and boys. These vaccines help protect against the high-risk types of HPV that lead to most cervical cancer cases.

Regular screening: Getting Pap smears and HPV tests is super important for spotting early changes in cervical cells that could turn into cancer. Regular screening means you can catch things early, which really boosts the chances of successful treatment.

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