World HPV Awareness Day is a day to talk about the human papillomavirus (HPV). It’s a time to clear up myths and remind people that many HPV-related cancers are preventable. With the tools we have, preventing HPV-related cancer is possible, with awareness as the first step.
About HPV
HPV is spread through close and intimate skin-to-skin contact. Roughly 85% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime.
Most people who have HPV have no symptoms and are unaware they have it. This is because HPV infections often clear up on their own.
HPV and Cancer
However, some HPV types can cause cancer. There are more than 200 types of HPV, with about 12 types being linked to cancer. Each year in the United States, an estimated 36,500 men and women are diagnosed with a cancer caused by an HPV infection.
Protection Against HPV
The good news is that we have safe and effective tools to help prevent cancer caused by HPV.
HPV Vaccine
One of the best cancer prevention tools we have is the HPV vaccine. HPV vaccination could prevent more than 90% of HPV-related cancers from ever developing.
The HPV vaccine works best when given well before exposure to the virus.
- The HPV vaccine is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11 to 12 years of age. Vaccination can also start as early as 9 years of age.
- The HPV vaccine produces the strongest immune response in preteens.
- People aged 26 years and younger who are not fully vaccinated are recommended to get the vaccine.
- Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.
- The HPV vaccine is available for free through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program for eligible children ages 9-18 years old.
Screening for HPV
- Screening for HPV is another safe and effective tool for preventing HPV related cancer however it is not available for all cancers caused by HPV.
- Women should start getting screened for cervical cancer at age 21. Screening can include HPV and/or Pap tests.
- A healthcare provider can help determine which screening test is best and how often a woman should get screened.
- Eligible women can get free screenings through the Every Woman’s Life Program.
Research is still being done on HPV tests for other parts of the body. People with concerns about other HPV-related cancers should talk with a healthcare provider.
Other Prevention Steps
- Practice Safer Sex
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- Limiting the number of sex partners and avoiding sexual activity with people who have had many other sex partners can help lower your risk of exposure to HPV.
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- Use a barrier method (condom or dental dam) during sex. This can reduce (but not eliminate) the chance of HPV spreading.
- If you smoke, stop or cut back if you can. Smoking exposure significantly increases cervical cancer risk.
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