Vaginal cancer risk factors
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
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Overview
Risk factors
Clinical data has suggested that the development of vaginal cancer is related to several factors.
- Vaginal adenosis: Clinical research suggest that having adenosis increases the risk of developing clear cell carcinoma. Although it is very small, many doctors feel that any woman with adenosis should have very careful screening and follow-up.
- Cervical cancer: Surveies show having cervical cancer increases the risk of vaginal squamous cell cancer. This is most likely because cervical and vaginal cancers have similar risk factors.
- Diethylstilbestrol (DES): Clinical data show women whose mothers took Diethylstilbestrol (DES) develop clear-cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina more often than would normally be expected. These women are called "DES daughters".
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Certain types of HPV (type 16 and 18) have been strongly associated with vaginal cancers.
- HIV infection: Clinical studies show human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) also increases the risk of vaginal cancer.
- Unhealthy lifestyle: Epidemiological research demonstrates smoking and alcohol increase th erisk of vaginal cancer.
- Age: Vaginal cancer is always found in women above 70 years old.