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Causes and Risk Factors of Vaginal Cancer

By Lisa Fayed, About.com

Created: November 22, 2005

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Vaginal Cancer Risk Factors and Causes

Although the causes of vaginal cancer are not known, researchers have identified several know risk factors for the disease. A risk factor is an activity or condition that is associated with another illness.

Risk factors for vaginal cancer include:

  • Being 30 or younger, or 60 and over
  • Being infected with the HPV virus
  • The use of a vaginal pessary to keep the uterus from sliding into the vagina
  • Exposure to synthetic hormone DES while in the mother's womb



Keep in mind that if you have a risk factor for vaginal cancer, it does not mean you will absolutely develop the disease. Talk with your doctor about reducing your risk.

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