Cervical cancer: who is at risk?

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, yet it still affects thousands of women every year. Thanks to screening programmes and growing awareness, more cases are being caught early, which makes treatment more effective. Still, understanding who is at risk remains key to prevention and early detection.

In this article, we’ll explore what cervical cancer is, the main risk factors, symptoms to watch for and how screening and lifestyle choices can make a difference to your health.

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. In most cases, it is linked to a long-lasting infection with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

HPV is extremely common and for the majority of people it causes no problems at all, as the body usually clears the infection naturally. In a small number of cases, however, the virus can remain in the body and cause changes to the cells of the cervix. The changes to these cells are not yet cancer, but if left untreated over a long period of time, they may become cancerous.

Who is most at risk?

Cervical cancer can affect anyone with a cervix, but some groups face a higher risk due to certain factors. These include:

• Age: Most cervical cancer cases occur in women aged 30–45, though it can develop at any age.

• HPV infection: Persistent infection with high-risk strains of HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer.

• Not attending screening: Cervical screening (smear tests) can detect abnormal cell changes early. Missing or delaying appointments increases risk.

• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immunity (for example due to HIV or certain medications) may find it harder to fight off HPV infections.

• Smoking: NHS and Cancer Research UK state that women who smoke are up to five times more likely to develop cervical cancer.

• Long-term use of the contraceptive pill: Using the pill for more than five years has been linked to a slightly higher risk, though the benefits of contraception must also be considered.

• Having children at a younger age or multiple births: These factors may contribute to increased risk, although the reasons are not fully understood.

Symptoms of cervical cancer

Cervical cancer often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why screening is so important. However, as it develops, common signs may include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or after menopause)

• Changes to vaginal discharge

• Pain or discomfort during sex

• Persistent lower back, pelvic or abdominal pain

These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but they should be checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Why cervical screening matters

Cervical screening, often known as a smear test, is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer. It checks for high-risk HPV and abnormal cells that could turn cancerous if left untreated.

In the UK, women and people with a cervix aged 25-64 are invited for regular screening. Attending when you’re called can prevent up to 67% of cervical cancers, with a 70% reduction in deaths, according to the British Medical Journal.

The role of HPV vaccination

The HPV vaccine has been a breakthrough in cervical cancer prevention. It protects against the most common high-risk strains of HPV and is now routinely offered to boys and girls in secondary school. If you missed it at school, you may still be eligible for vaccination as an adult.

While the vaccine doesn’t protect against all types of HPV, it significantly reduces the risk of infection and, in turn, cervical cancer. Screening is still important, even if you’ve been vaccinated.

Lifestyle factors that can reduce risk

While not all risk factors are within your control, there are lifestyle choices that can support your cervical health:

• Stop smoking: Quitting smoking strengthens your immune system and lowers cancer risk.

• Practise safe sex: Using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners reduces exposure to HPV.

• Keep a healthy immune system: A balanced diet, regular exercise and good sleep all help your body fight infections.

• Attend regular health checks: Screening and health assessments can spot potential issues early.

Cervical cancer and menopause

It’s important to remember that cervical cancer doesn’t just affect younger women. While most cases are diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 45, women over 50 remain at risk, too. After menopause, some women may feel that routine screening is no longer necessary, but attending their smear tests up until the age of 64 is still vital.

The symptoms of cervical cancer can sometimes be more easily overlooked after menopause, as changes in bleeding or discharge may be attributed to hormonal changes or ageing. However, unusual vaginal bleeding at any stage after menopause should always be taken seriously and investigated promptly.

Even if you’ve been through the menopause, it’s important to continue attending cervical screening appointments and to seek medical advice if you notice any unusual changes. Combined with the protective effect of the HPV vaccine and regular health checks, this is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your cervical health later in life.

How Bluecrest Wellness can help

At Bluecrest Wellness, we offer a Cervical Cancer Risk Test designed to highlight potential risks early and give you a clearer picture of your health.

Your check involves taking a small swab using our simple collection kit from the comfort of your own home. Once you’ve taken and returned your sample, our laboratory will analyse your cells to check for the HPV strains which put you at a high risk of developing cervical cancer.

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