Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection that spreads through sexual contact.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 80% of people will contract HPV during their lifetime, with most cases clearing up on their own. However, certain strains of HPV can lead to cancer, including cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, and throat cancers. It’s important to understand the link between HPV and cancer, as well as ways to prevent and manage the infection.

What is HPV?

HPV is a virus that affects the skin and mucous membranes. It’s spread through skin-to-skin contact, specifically during sexual activity. There are over 100 strains of HPV, with some causing genital warts and others increasing the risk of cancer.

Most people with HPV have no symptoms and are unaware they have the infection.

Link Between HPV and Cancer

The connection between HPV and cancer is related to the high-risk strains of the virus. HPV-16 and HPV-18 are responsible for 70% of cervical cancers, while HPV-16 is also linked to anal, penile, vaginal, and throat cancers.

These strains of HPV can infect and damage cells in the body, leading to cancer in some cases. It’s important to note that not everyone who contracts HPV will develop cancer, and there are other risk factors involved.

HPV and Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is the most commonly associated cancer with HPV. The virus is found in over 90% of cervical cancers, making it a major risk factor for the disease. HPV infects the cells of the cervical lining, causing changes that may lead to cancer.

The changes may take years to develop, and regular cervical cancer screening is important to detect any abnormalities early on. The HPV vaccine can also be given to prevent the strains of HPV that are most commonly associated with cervical cancer.

HPV and Other Cancers

Other cancers that may be associated with HPV include anal, penile, vaginal, and throat cancers. HPV can infect the cells lining these areas, resulting in abnormal changes that may lead to cancer.

Anal cancer is more common in people who engage in anal sex or have a weakened immune system. Penile cancer is more common in uncircumcised men and those with poor hygiene. Vaginal cancer is rare but more likely in women who have had a history of HPV or have a weakened immune system.

Throat cancer is becoming more common, specifically in the base of the tongue and tonsils, and is mainly caused by HPV-16.

Prevention and Management of HPV

Preventing HPV is important to reduce the risk of developing cancer. The HPV vaccine can be administered to both males and females between the ages of 9 and 45. It’s most effective when given before sexual activity begins.

It’s also important to practice safe sex, such as using condoms and limiting sexual partners.

If you’ve been diagnosed with HPV, there are management options available. Regular follow-up appointments and testing, such as Pap tests for women, can detect any abnormal changes.

In some cases, treatment such as surgery or radiation therapy may be necessary to remove or destroy precancerous or cancerous cells.

Conclusion

Understanding the link between HPV and cancer is important to prevent and manage the infection. HPV is a common virus that spreads through sexual contact.

Certain strains of HPV can lead to cancer, including cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, and throat cancers. Preventative measures such as the HPV vaccine and safe sex practices can reduce the risk of developing HPV. Regular follow-up appointments and testing can detect any abnormalities early on, and treatment may be necessary in some cases.