HPV commonly infects the genital and oral regions. While most infections resolve, persistent high-risk types (especially 16 and 18) drive the majority of cervical cancers and contribute to other cancers. Vaccination (nine-valent vaccine) and regular cervical screening (Pap and HPV testing) provide effective prevention and early detection. Condoms reduce but don't eliminate risk; treatments manage lesions but do not cure infection.

HPV is the main cause of cervical and other cancers

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection and the primary cause of cervical cancer. Certain high-risk types - most notably HPV 16 and 18 - account for roughly 70% of cervical cancers. HPV is also linked to anal, oropharyngeal (throat), vulvar, vaginal, and penile cancers.

Infection is usually transient, but persistent infection is the risk

Most HPV infections are cleared by the immune system within one to two years and cause no symptoms. When a high-risk strain persists, it can produce abnormal cells over many years that may progress to cancer if not detected and treated.

How HPV spreads and how to reduce risk

HPV spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Condoms lower but do not eliminate risk because they do not cover all infected skin. Reducing the number of sexual partners and delaying sexual activity reduce exposure chances.

Vaccination is the most effective prevention. The current vaccine (nine-valent) protects against the HPV types responsible for the majority of cervical cancers and many other HPV-related cancers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine vaccination at ages 11-12, with catch-up vaccination through age 26 and shared decision-making for some adults 27-45.

Screening: Pap tests and HPV testing

Cervical screening detects abnormal cells before they become cancer. Guidelines vary slightly by agency, but common US recommendations are: begin cytology (Pap) screening at 21; ages 21-29, Pap every 3 years; ages 30-65, Pap every 3 years or primary HPV testing every 5 years, or co-testing (Pap plus HPV) every 5 years. Regular screening has dramatically reduced cervical cancer rates where programs are available.

Symptoms and treatment

HPV often causes no symptoms. Some low-risk types cause genital warts, which can be treated with topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), or removal. Treatments remove visible lesions but do not eliminate the virus from the body. For precancerous changes detected on the cervix, clinicians use procedures such as excision or ablation to remove abnormal tissue and prevent progression.

A short history and why awareness matters

Researchers established the link between HPV and cervical cancer through molecular and epidemiological studies in the late 20th century, work recognized with a Nobel Prize in 2008. Public attention once focused heavily on HIV; today, HPV prevention through vaccination and screening offers a practical path to reduce cervical and other HPV-related cancers. Awareness and uptake of these tools remain essential to lowering HPV-related disease.

FAQs about Human Papilloma Virus

Can HPV be cured?
There is no cure that eliminates HPV from the body. Most infections clear on their own within 1-2 years. Treatments remove warts or precancerous tissue but do not eradicate the virus systemically.
Who should get the HPV vaccine and when?
The CDC recommends routine vaccination at ages 11-12, though it can start at age 9. Catch-up vaccination is advised through age 26. Adults 27-45 may consider vaccination after discussing potential benefits with their clinician.
How often should I get screened for cervical cancer?
Common US guidance is: begin screening at 21. Ages 21-29, Pap every 3 years. Ages 30-65, Pap every 3 years or primary HPV testing every 5 years, or Pap plus HPV co-testing every 5 years. Follow your clinician's guidance and local recommendations.
Do condoms fully protect against HPV?
No. Condoms reduce HPV transmission risk but do not provide complete protection because HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom.
If I have genital warts, does that mean I will get cancer?
No. Genital warts are usually caused by low-risk HPV types that do not cause cancer. High-risk HPV types cause most cancers, and these often cause no visible warts. Regular screening and follow-up are important if you have abnormal cervical cells.

News about Human Papilloma Virus

Unveiling the burden of human papillomavirus infection and risk factors among Indigenous women in Mizoram, Northeast India - BMC Infectious Diseases [Visit Site | Read More]

Why has Pakistan’s HPV vaccine campaign faced a backlash? - Al Jazeera [Visit Site | Read More]

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination | Doctor - Patient.info [Visit Site | Read More]

Persistence and clearance of oral human papillomavirus among a multi-national cohort of men - Nature [Visit Site | Read More]

Gavi, WHO, and UNICEF strengthen commitment to cervical cancer prevention in Mozambique, protecting nearly 3 million girls - Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance [Visit Site | Read More]

Knowledge and attitudes of medical students regarding human papilloma virus infection and vaccine: cross-sectional study from Jordan - Frontiers [Visit Site | Read More]

Diagnostic Accuracy of Urine-Based HPV Testing Compared With Clinician-Collected Cervical Samples for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia Grade 2 or Worse (CIN2+) Detection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - Cureus [Visit Site | Read More]