The human papillomavirus (HPV) is an extremely common infection, spread primarily through skin-to-skin contact, with most sexually active individuals contracting at least one type in their lifetime. While often harmless, certain HPV strains can lead to severe health consequences, including several types of cancer. This article breaks down the facts about HPV: how it spreads, what it does, how it’s diagnosed, and the best ways to protect yourself.
What Is HPV?
HPV isn’t a single virus; it’s a group of over 150 related viruses, each numbered (e.g., HPV 16, HPV 18). These viruses infect skin cells or mucous membranes (areas like the mouth, throat, cervix, vagina, and anus). The virus types fall into two main categories:
- Low-risk HPV: Causes warts (skin or genital), but doesn’t usually lead to cancer.
- High-risk HPV: Can cause cell changes that lead to cancer over time. HPV 16 and 18 are responsible for the majority of HPV-related cancers.
The virus can be transmitted through any skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity (vaginal, anal, or oral), but even casual touch can spread certain strains. Many infections clear on their own, but persistent high-risk strains are the primary concern.
How Does HPV Cause Cancer?
High-risk HPV types can alter cells over years or even decades, increasing the risk of various cancers:
- Cervical cancer: Nearly all cases are linked to HPV. Regular screening is vital for early detection.
- Anal cancer: Over 90% of cases are caused by HPV.
- Oropharyngeal cancer: (mouth and throat) HPV is now a major cause, particularly in younger people with oral sex history.
- Vaginal, vulvar, and penile cancer: HPV plays a significant role in these cancers as well.
The infection doesn’t immediately cause cancer; it’s a slow process of cell changes. However, because the virus can remain dormant for years, symptoms may not appear until the disease is advanced.
Diagnosing HPV and its Complications
Diagnosing HPV depends on the type and location of the infection.
- Warts: Easily visible during a physical exam. Skin biopsies can confirm the diagnosis.
- Genital/Anogenital Warts: Can be highlighted using acetic acid.
- Cervical Cancer Screening: The HPV test can detect the virus in cervical cells before cancer develops, allowing for early intervention. Women can even self-collect samples for testing.
- Oropharyngeal Cancer: Diagnosed through biopsies of throat tissue.
Early detection is key. If precancerous changes are found, treatments like cryotherapy (freezing), surgery, or medication can prevent cancer from developing.
HPV Prevention and Treatment
The most effective prevention method is the HPV vaccine. Gardasil 9 protects against nine HPV strains, including those responsible for most genital warts and cancers. The vaccine is approved for people ages 9 to 45. Routine vaccination is recommended at age 11 or 12, and ideally before sexual activity begins.
There’s no cure for HPV itself, but treatments can manage symptoms and complications:
- Warts: Over-the-counter treatments, cryotherapy, or surgical removal.
- Precancerous Cells: Removed through cryotherapy, laser treatment, or other procedures.
- Cancer: Treated with standard cancer therapies (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery).
HPV Statistics and Disparities
Approximately 42.5 million Americans are living with HPV, with 13 million new infections each year. Roughly 37,000 HPV-related cancers occur annually in the U.S. Rates of infection vary by race and ethnicity, with white adults having the highest incidence and Asian/Pacific Islanders the lowest.
Conclusion
HPV is a common infection with potentially severe consequences. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection, while regular screenings (Pap tests and HPV tests) are crucial for early detection of precancerous changes. Understanding the risks and taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the burden of HPV-related diseases.
