FAQ about HPV

FAQ: HPV at a Glance

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common group of viruses with diverse strains, each carrying its own implications. Here’s a brief overview:

Prevalence

More than 80% of sexually active people will contract at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives.
Approximately 660 million people are infected with HPV worldwide.

High vs. Low Risk

High-Risk HPV: Strains like HPV 16 and 18 are linked to the development of cancers, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings and vaccinations.
Low-Risk HPV: Strains causing warts are generally less concerning, though they can impact one’s quality of life.

Cancer Connection

HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for approximately 70% of all cases of cervical cancer.
High-risk HPV types contribute to cancers of the cervix, anus, vulva, vagina, penis, and oropharynx.

Warts and Beyond

Common Warts: Low-risk HPV strains can cause warts on various body parts, including hands and feet.
Genital Warts: Certain HPV strains, often low-risk, are responsible for genital warts, affecting the genital and anal areas.

Transmission

Common Routes: HPV is primarily spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. It can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth.

Screening and Early Detection

Pap Smears: Regular screenings, especially for individuals with a cervix, aid in detecting abnormal cell changes caused by high-risk HPV.
Testing for Men: While routine testing isn’t standard for men, those with symptoms or at higher risk may undergo testing.

Prevention Strategies

Vaccination: Vaccines, such as Gardasil 9, target key high-risk HPV strains, offering protection against cancer and certain warts.
Safe Practices: Consistent and correct condom use can reduce the risk of transmission.

Gender Neutral Impact

Not Exclusive to Women: While cervical cancer is the most discussed consequence, HPV affects individuals of all genders, underscoring the need for awareness and prevention across the board.

HPV is responsible for:

almost all cases of genital warts and cervical cancer
90% of anal cancers
78% of vaginal cancers
25% of vulvar cancers
50% of penile cancers
60% of oropharyngeal cancers

How HPV is spread

You do not need to have penetrative sex.

You can get HPV from:

any skin-to-skin contact of the genital area
vaginal, anal or oral sex
sharing sex toys

Symptoms of HPV

HPV does not usually cause any symptoms.

Most people who have it do not realise and do not have any problems.

Screening tests are used to check for a disease or condition when there are no symptoms. The goal of screening is to find health problems early, when they may be easier to treat.

Understanding HPV involves acknowledging its dual nature—manifesting as both harmless warts and potentially life-threatening cancers. Vigilance through vaccination, safe practices, and regular screenings remains our most potent defense against the multifaceted impact of HPV.

cancer.gov

WHO.com