A nationwide Swedish study found that adolescents and young adults with severe precancerous cervical lesions (HSIL) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and increased mortality.[5] Cervical precancers are precancerous conditions caused by infection with a high-risk strain of the HPV virus and usually develop over about 10 years.[3] These changes are usually symptomless and can only be detected by a preventive smear from the uterus or a gynecological examination.[3] Early detection and treatment of precancerous lesions through screening prevents the development of cervical cancer.[1] Women aged 35 years and older with identified moderate or severe precancerous lesions are at higher risk of developing cervical cancer compared to women younger than 35 years.[1] The risk of progression from moderate to severe precancerous lesions is estimated to be 32 percent within 10 years.[1] It is important that people with HPV are aware of the possible risk of developing cervical cancer and heart disease and should undergo regular screening examinations.[5]