Health Tip: Are You at Greater Risk For Cervical Cancer?

(HealthDay News) -- The most common cause of cervical cancer is infection with the human papillomavirus. Before cancer develops in the cervix, cervical cells begin to develop abnormally -- a process known as dysplasia. These abnormal cells can be detected by a test called a Pap smear.

The U.S. National Cancer Institute lists these risk factors for developing cervical cancer:

• Not having regular Pap smears.

• Abnormal Pap results.

• Having sex at a young age.

• Having many sexual partners.

• Giving birth to many children.

• Smoking.

• Taking oral contraceptives.

• Having a weakened immune system.