Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina. It is primarily caused by certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual contact. While the immune system usually prevents HPV from causing harm, in some cases, the virus can persist and lead to the development of cancerous cells. Around 14,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually, with women aged 35 to 44 being the most affected.