HPV & Cancer: An Introduction

Human papillomavirus or HPV, as the name states, is a virus from the Papillomaviridae family. The infection caused by the virus, also known by the same name, is the most common sexually transmitted infection. With over 100 types of HPVs, the most common symptom they present are
skin warts, which could range from flat lesions to cauliflower-like warts. These can develop in and around the genitals and can cause discomfort and or pain. While these are communicable, not all HPV infections lead to cancer. However, there are some high-risk HPVs that can result in
precancerous lesions.

Common cancers that can develop due to an existing HPV infection are Cervical & Oral, with other genital cancers being less common. This can happen when an individual’s immune system fails to get rid of the infection, which is why people with weak immune systems contracting HPV are considered high-risk for these cancers. Other factors that increase the risk of cancer when combined with HPV are early delivery of a baby, presence of other STIs, multiple births and tobacco consumption.

Prevention

In recent decades, there has been an increased focus on HPV vaccination. However, the vaccine may not work on an individual that already has the infection. It is also known to work better on younger individuals than older ones. Other ways to prevent the contraction of the virus are: 

• Abstinence/limiting the number of sexual partners
• Usage of protection while engaging sex
• Get regular pap smears