Cervix is the narrow part of the lower uterus that connects to the vagina, often referred to as the neck of the womb. Cervical cancer is an abnormal growth of cells of the cervix. The abnormal cells, sometimes called precancerous tissue, which further develops as cervical cancer. A virus called HPV causes cervical cancer. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing most cervical cancer.

Types of cervical cancer

• Squamous cell carcinoma. This type of cervical cancer begins in the thin, flat cells (squamous cells) lining the outer part of the cervix, which projects into the vagina. Most cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas.
• Adenocarcinoma. This type of cervical cancer begins in the column-shaped glandular cells that line the cervical canal.
• Sometimes, both types of cells are involved in cervical cancer. Very rarely, cancer occurs in other cells in the cervix.

Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be given: Externally, by directing a radiation beam at the affected area of the body (external beam radiation therapy) Internally, by placing a device filled with radioactive material inside your vagina, usually for only a few minutes (brachytherapy)