Last Updated on January 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Cervical cancer is the fourth most prevalent cancer in women worldwide. Breast cancer is a type of cancer that begins in breast tissue. The pathogenesis of both cervical and breast cancers is linked to persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Both these cancers are common and pose a threat to women’s health. This article discusses whether there is a link between cervical and breast cancer, the significance of HPV in their incidence, and the preventive effects of the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer.
Is there a link between breast cancer and cervical cancer?
No, not always. Having cervical cancer typically does not increase a person’s risk of breast cancer. In addition, gynecologic cancers rarely spread to the breast. Lung, liver, or bone metastases are the most frequent destinations for cervical cancer. Breast metastases from cervical cancer occasionally resemble inflammatory breast cancer, but typically they present as a single breast mass.
Does the human papillomavirus have the potential to cause breast or cervical cancer?
The human papillomavirus (HPV), a widespread virus that can transmit from one person to another during sexual activity, is the primary cause of majority of cervical cancers. HPV comes in a variety of forms. While other HPV types can result in genital or skin warts, some HPV types can alter a woman’s cervix and eventually lead to cervical cancer.
If the immune system fails to destroy the cells that HPV infects, it may lead to cancer. Cancer-causing mutations may then develop in these infected cells. This makes it possible that HPV could cause breast cancer, though there isn’t enough evidence to back up that theory.
Along with cervical cancer, the human papillomavirus has also been linked to throat cancer, anal cancer, vulvar cancer, and vaginal cancer.
What part does the HPV vaccine play in preventing cervical cancer?
Cervical and anogenital cancers are known to be caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Cervical cancer causes over 25,000 deaths per year. HPV vaccines for preventive use The HPV vaccine may shield against cervical cancer brought on by HPV. Three vaccines against HPV have received FDA approval:
- Human papillomavirus (bivalent vaccine): Cervarix
- Human papillomavirus (quadrivalent vaccine): Gardasil
- Human papillomavirus (9-valent vaccine): Gardasil 9
Anyone between the ages of 11 and 26 may receive these vaccinations. Between the ages of 9 and 14, two shots are given over the course of six months. Anyone receiving the vaccine between the ages of 15 and 26 will receive three doses. Males and females aged 27 to 45 who have never received a vaccination can now receive Gardasil 9. Besides that, these vaccines cannot treat pre-existing infections or their associated preinvasive lesions.
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