Human papilloma virus or HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, and the Centers for Disease Control says it’s so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives. The CDC says about 79 million Americans are currently infected with HPV. About 14 million people become infected each year. For many people, it will go away with no medical intervention, but for others, it can cause genital warts or cancer.
There are more than 100 types of HPV known to scientists, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says about 12 types are linked to genital warts, while about 15 different types cause cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis as well as the head and neck. …show more content…
Many learn they have HPV after their doctor diagnoses them with genital warts. For many women, they learn they’ve been infected after a Pap test (or Pap smear) comes back as abnormal, while others may find out when they’re diagnosed with cancer.
An abnormal Pap test does not necessarily mean HPV or cervical cancer. Before making a final diagnosis, your doctor will first order additional tests including an HPV test. If you have certain symptoms, your doctor may also perform several tests, including a colposcopy, which will allow an up close look at your cervix. If there are signs of abnormal cells, your doctor may do a biopsy to rule out precancerous cells or even cancer.
Unlike all other forms of cancer, the HPV vaccination is effective in preventing most HPV-related cancers, including cervical, but it’s highly controversial. Doctors recommend girls and boys get the three-series vaccination starting around age 11. Research shows the vaccine is more effective when given during the preteen years. The vaccine only works to prevent an infection, not to treat it. The American Cancer Society says that’s why HPV vaccines should be given before a person becomes sexually
There are more than 100 types of HPV known to scientists, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says about 12 types are linked to genital warts, while about 15 different types cause cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis as well as the head and neck. …show more content…
Many learn they have HPV after their doctor diagnoses them with genital warts. For many women, they learn they’ve been infected after a Pap test (or Pap smear) comes back as abnormal, while others may find out when they’re diagnosed with cancer.
An abnormal Pap test does not necessarily mean HPV or cervical cancer. Before making a final diagnosis, your doctor will first order additional tests including an HPV test. If you have certain symptoms, your doctor may also perform several tests, including a colposcopy, which will allow an up close look at your cervix. If there are signs of abnormal cells, your doctor may do a biopsy to rule out precancerous cells or even cancer.
Unlike all other forms of cancer, the HPV vaccination is effective in preventing most HPV-related cancers, including cervical, but it’s highly controversial. Doctors recommend girls and boys get the three-series vaccination starting around age 11. Research shows the vaccine is more effective when given during the preteen years. The vaccine only works to prevent an infection, not to treat it. The American Cancer Society says that’s why HPV vaccines should be given before a person becomes sexually