The Hidden Role of Viruses in Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer, the most common gynecological cancer worldwide, is on the rise. Researchers are finding that certain viruses, like human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and others, might be playing a part in this cancer's development. It's crucial to understand how these viruses interact with the body to cause cervical cancer. One way viruses contribute is by messing with the body's natural controls on cell growth. They can also turn off important proteins that normally stop cancer from growing. Additionally, viruses can hide from the immune system, making it hard for the body to fight back. This persistent infection can cause long-term inflammation, which promotes cancer growth. Another sneaky trick viruses use is changing how genes work without altering their DNA sequence. They can also encourage new blood vessels to grow around the tumor, feeding it and helping it spread. Lastly, viruses can make cells live forever by activating an enzyme called telomerase. When multiple viruses infect the body at the same time, they can work together to increase the risk of cancer. They do this by enhancing each other's cancer-causing abilities, avoiding the immune system, causing chronic inflammation, and altering how cells communicate.