Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
By: Baylee Lawson
Description
- Family of over 100 viruses
- 30 strains of viruses are spread through sexual contact
- Elevates the risk of cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the anus, vagina, penis, and parts of the mouth and throat
- Most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States
Cause or Mode of Infection
- Can be received by having vaginal, oral, or anal sex with an affected partner
- Even if the affected person shows no symptoms the virus can be passed
Prevention
Get vaccinated:
- Protects males and females
- Vaccination should occur at 11 or 12 years of age.
- Catch-up vaccines are recommended for men up to 21 years, and women up to 26 years.
If sexually active:
- Use latex condoms properly each time.
- Condoms do not guarantee full protection.
- Be in a sexually monogamous relationship.
Get screened:
- Women aged 21-65 should get regular Pap tests to screen for cervical cancer.
Method of Diagnosis
- There is not an approved test for HPV.
- People typically do not know until they develop symptoms, or more serious problems like cancer.
- Doctors can diagnose HPV by examining oral, hand/feet, or genital warts.
Symptoms and Treatment
There is no treatment for the virus itself, only they symptoms associated.
- Genital warts: treated by either the affected person or a physician. If left untreated the warts may go away, remain the same, or grow in size or number.
- Cervical Precancer: can be treated if caught by a Pap test
- HPV related cancers: are typically treatable if caught early enough
Epidemiology
- It is estimated that every sexually active man and woman will acquire HPV.
- An estimated 79 million women aged 14-59 are infected- with the highest amount being 20-24 years of age
- Types HPV-16 and HPV-18 account for 99.7% of cervical cancers diagnosed.