Cervical cancer
Last update
269 women in Norway were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2024. This is the lowest number ever recorded for this type of cancer.
About cervical cancer
The incidence of cervical cancer in Norway had a steady decline in the period from 1975 to the 2000s. From the mid-2000s, however, we see an increase in incidence in the age group 35 to 49 years. From 2013, we also see an increase in the age group 25 to 34 years.
After a decline in the number of new diagnoses in 2020 in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase in incidence due to delayed diagnostics was expected. Currently, no signs of an increase in new diagnoses are seen, the decline in new diagnoses will continue in 2024. In 2024, 269 cases of cervical cancer were reported to the Cancer Registry. This is the lowest number ever recorded in Norway.
Cervical cancer occurs most often in people in their 30s and 40s, but it can be prevented with screening and vaccination.
Key figures cervical cancer 2024
New cases:
269
Rates - number of cases per 100,000:
9.4
5-year relative survival (2020-2024):
82.4 %
Cancer survivors:
8000 people as of 31.12.2024
Deaths (2023):
80
Cumulative risk of developing cervical cancer by age 80 (2020-2024):
0.9 %
Risk factors
The cause of cancer of the cervix is in over 99 percent of cases long-term infection with HPV (Human Papillomavirus).
Studies show a good effect of screening against cervical cancer, and the most important thing to reduce the risk is to follow the Cervical Screening Programme and to take the vaccine against HPV.
Other factors that may cause a small increased risk, if you also have a long-term HPV infection.
- Women who are infected with both HPV and Chlamydia are at increased risk
- Use of oral contraceptives over a long period of time
- Reduced immune function can cause an HPV infection to flourish and lead to cervical cancer
- Tobacco smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer
- Exposure to Diethylbestrol (DES) in fetal life (used by pregnant women in 1940-1791 to prevent pregnancy complications) increases the risk of cell changes and cancer
Questions about cancer
The Cancer Registry of Norway is a research institution. Our professionals therefore do not answer questions about diagnosis, assessment, treatment and follow-up from patients or their relatives.
Inquiries about this information should be directed to your general practitioner, treating institution, or the Norwegian Cancer Society's advisory service at phone: +47 21 49 49 21.