Human papillomavirus, often called HPV, is a very common group of viruses, made up of more than 100 subtypes.
HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity (including vaginal, anal or oral sex), or through a cut, abrasion or break in your skin. In most cases, the body’s immune system clears the infection. Persistent infections can lead to health problems, including growths or lumps around your vagina, penis or anus (genital warts) and abnormal changes in the cells that can sometimes turn into cancer.
The viruses are categorised into two main groups, ‘low-risk’ and ‘high-risk’, based on their potential to cause cancer. Low-risk HPV types, such as HPV 6 and 11, can cause skin warts on or around the genital and anal area but are not associated with cancer. High-risk HPV types, including HPV 16 and 18, can cause cancer in different parts of the body, including the cervix, anus, throat, penis, vagina and vulva.
In the UK, the HPV vaccine is recommended for all girls and boys from the age of 11 as part of the national vaccination programme (free on the NHS), and it is also available to some other high-risk groups. Since the vaccine was introduced, there has been a significant reduction in the number of young people getting conditions linked to HPV.
HPV and Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer arises from the cells lining the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types is the primary cause of this type of cancer. HPV types 16 and 18 cause approximately 70% of all cervical cancer cases.
The progression from HPV infection to cervical cancer usually occurs over many years. Initially, the virus infects the cells lining the surface of the cervix. In most cases, the body's immune system clears the infection naturally within two years. However, in a small percentage, the virus remains and can lead to the development of abnormal cells in the cervical lining, a condition known as cervical dysplasia.
If undetected or untreated, these abnormal cells can acquire additional genetic mutations, eventually becoming cancerous. High-risk HPV types and cervical dysplasia can be detected early via regular cervical screening tests, also known as smear tests where a sample of cells is taken from the cervix using a small brush. In the UK, screening is offered to all women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64.
Myths and Confusion Surrounding HPV
- Myth: Only promiscuous individuals get HPV.
Reality: Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV. - Myth: HPV always leads to cancer.
Reality: While high-risk types of HPV can lead to cancer, most HPV infections do not cause cancer and are cleared by the body's immune system. - Myth: Only women and people with a cervix can get HPV.
Reality: Anyone that is sexually active can be infected with HPV. - Myth: If you have HPV, you'll show symptoms.
Reality: HPV often causes no symptoms, so many people don't know they're infected. This is why regular cervical screening is important. - Myth: HPV can be treated.
Reality: There is currently no treatment for the virus itself. However, there are treatments for the health problems that HPV can cause, such as warts or cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer.
With accurate information and proactive healthcare, the impact of HPV on individuals' lives can be significantly reduced.
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