Fatores de risco e estratégias de detecção precoce e prevenção do câncer de colo do útero: uma abordagem integral para a saúde da mulher

Objective: To investigate the main risk factors and early detection strategies for cervical cancer, as well as their effectiveness. Methodology: This is a literature review with the research question based on the PICOS strategy (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome, Setting). The full texts of the articles were screened using Health Science Descriptors (DeCS) such as "Uterine Cervical Neoplasms" as keywords. Original studies discussing the principles of preventive care and early detection published between 2019 and 2024, written in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, were included. Case reports, letters, and studies published in journals with a Qualis rating lower than A4 were excluded. Results and Discussion: Cervical cancer is a public health problem with the main risk factor being the HPV virus. Prevention of this type of cancer involves measures to avoid virus transmission, primarily through vaccination, which significantly reduces observed cases. Early detection is based on identifying the virus itself and the changes it causes in the epithelium, positively influencing treatment outcomes. Final Considerations: In summary, HPV is the main risk factor for cervical cancer, making virus screening and the detection of precursor lesions the best prevention strategy. These actions should be complemented by vaccinating the population susceptible to the viral disease, ensuring proper surveillance of these conditions.