HPV: 10 Important Facts you need to know

The Human Papilloma Virus ( HPV) is widespread STI that is particularly common in people in their teens and twenties, although it can occur at any age.

1. HPV is Extremely Common

• HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. Most sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives, often without even knowing it.
• Nearly all sexually active people get HPV at some point in their lives.

2. There are Over 100 Types of HPV

• HPV is not just one virus, but a group of over 200 related viruses. Out of those 200 types, there are about 14 that can infect the genital area, mouth, and throat.
• There are four main HPV strains which causes noticeable symptoms. HPV 6 and 11 causes genital warts and HPV 16 and 18 causes Cervical cancer.

3. HPV Can Cause Cancer

• High-risk types of HPV like HPV 16 and 18 can cause cancers such as:
• Cervical cancer
• Anal cancer
• Penile cancer
• Throat (oropharyngeal) cancer
• Vaginal and vulvar cancer
• Persistent infections of high-risk types (mainly HPV 16 and 18) cause cellular changes that can turn into cancer over time.

4. HPV Also Causes Genital Warts

• Low-risk types of HPV like HPV 6 and HPV 11 don't cause cancer but can cause genital warts, which are skin growths in the genital and anal areas.

5. Most HPV Infections Clear on Their Own

• In most healthy people, in about 90% of cases, the body’s immune system naturally clears the infection within 1 to 2 years without causing health problems.

6. HPV is Spread Through Skin-to-Skin Contact

• HPV is primarily spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It does not require intercourse to be transmitted.
• Most people with HPV have no signs or symptoms, so they can pass it without knowing.

7. There is a Vaccine for HPV

• The HPV vaccine protects against the most common cancer-causing and wart-causing types of HPV. It is recommended for both males and females.
• Vaccination works best when administered to preteens before they become sexually active.
• Even a single dose helps protect against HPV and is helpful for people living in countries without many resources. 

8. HPV Diagnosis

• Examination of the warts can help diagnoses HPV infection
• Pap smears detect abnormal cervical cells, while HPV testing detects the virus itself. Regular screening can help prevent cervical cancer by catching changes early.

9. HPV Can Affect Both Men and Women

• While cervical cancer is the most known consequence, HPV can also cause health issues in men, such as penile, anal, and throat cancers, as well as genital warts.

10. HPV is Preventable

• Vaccination – The HPV Vaccine can protect againts the infection in both men and women, especially, if given before becoming sexually active.
• Condoms and dental dams can prevent oral spreadof HPV
• Reducing the number of sexual partners can reduce the risks of contacting HPV
• Regular health check-ups can help in early detection and treatment of HPV. It can also significantly lower the risk of HPV infection and its complications.