What You Need to Know About the Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States. It is estimated that approximately 6.2 million Americans become infected with HPV each year. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) also estimates that about half of sexually active individuals will become infected with HPV at some point in their lives.

HPV is the most common virus transmitted through genital contact and during vaginal and anal sexual intercourse. There are about 40 types of HPV that can infect sexually active individuals. There are some types of HPV that have no symptoms and will resolve on their own. However, there are some types that can lead to cervical cancer in women and cause genital warts in both men and women. HPV has also been linked to other rare types of cancers such as cancer of the vulva, vagina and anus.

HPV infection is the most common cause of cervical cancer in women. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women today. The CDC estimates that on average about 9,710 new cases or cervical cancer are reported each year. Cervical cancer is also responsible for approximately 3,700 deaths worldwide each year.

HPV can infect a woman's cervix and cause the cells to change rapidly. Most of the time the virus will go away by itself, however, if it does not cervical cancer can develop. These changes cause the cells to be classified as precancerous and if not removed can lead to cervical cancer over time. A simple yearly pap-smear will detect these precancerous cells and the physician can then take steps to remove the cells and monitor the area for a couple of years to ensure all the cells have been removed.

In addition to cervical cancer, HPV can also cause genital warts in both women and men. It is estimated by the American Cancer Society that about 1 million people have visible genital warts at any one time. Genital warts look similar to warts found on other parts of the body, such as the hands. These warts can be visible; on the external portion of the body, or hidden within the female's vagina out of view. Genital warts spread as the external cells sloth off and in bed in the partner's skin. If not destroyed by the body, the virus will cause genital warts in the partner as well. Condom and other forms of barrier contraception are only partly effective in the prevention of genital warts. Any skin to skin contact with a genital wart can cause virus shedding and transmission of the virus. Treatment for genital warts usually involves cryofreezing of the effected area.

The best way to protect your self from contracting HPV is abstinence. However, a new HPV vaccine was approved in June 2006 and has been approved for use in girls and women who have not contracted HPV yet.