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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses. Some types of HPV are harmless, while others can lead to health complications, including warts and cancers. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, affecting millions of people each year.
Types of HPV
- Low-risk HPV: Causes warts on the skin, genitals, or respiratory tract but does not lead to cancer.
- High-Risk HPV: Associated with various cancers, including cervical, anal, throat, and penile cancers.
Transmission
HPV is primarily spread through:
- Sexual Contact: Vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Non-sexual transmission through direct contact with infected areas.
Symptoms
Most HPV infections are asymptomatic and resolve on their own. When symptoms appear, they may include:
- Warts: Genital, plantar (foot), flat, or common warts on the hands and feet.
- Precancerous Changes: Detected via screening (e.g., Pap smears for cervical changes).
Complications
High-risk HPV can cause:
- Cervical Cancer: The most common cancer linked to HPV.
- Other Cancers: Anal, throat (oropharyngeal), vulvar, vaginal, and penile cancers.
- Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP): A rare condition where warts grow in the respiratory tract.
Diagnosis
- Pap Smear (Cervical Screening): Detects precancerous or cancerous changes in cervical cells.
- HPV DNA Test: Identifies the presence of high-risk HPV strains.
- Visual Inspection: For warts or visible abnormalities.
Prevention
- Vaccination:
- HPV vaccines (e.g., Gardasil, Cervarix) are highly effective against common high-risk and wart-causing strains.
- Recommended for preteens (boys and girls) aged 11–12 but can be given up to age 45.
- Safe Practices:
- Use of condoms and dental dams during sexual activity.
- Limiting the number of sexual partners.
- Regular Screening:
- Pap smears and HPV tests for women aged 21–65.
Treatment
There is no cure for HPV itself, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms:
- Wart Removal: Cryotherapy, topical treatments, or surgical removal.
- Precancerous Lesions: LEEP procedure, laser therapy, or surgical excision.
- Cancer Treatment: Standard cancer treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
Key Facts
- Prevalence: Nearly all sexually active individuals will contract HPV at some point in their lives.
- Immunity: Most infections are cleared naturally by the immune system within 2 years.
- Cancer Risk: Persistent high-risk HPV infection significantly increases cancer risk.
By taking preventive measures such as vaccination, practicing safe sexual behavior, and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can effectively reduce the risk of HPV-related health issues.
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