- By regular screenings and HPV testing
- By timely HPV vaccination after consulting your doctor
- By taking care of your sexual health
Understanding What is HumanPapillomaVirus
HPV is the most commonly transmitted viral infection of the reproductive tract and is the main cause of cervical cancer worldwide. The infection often functions silently and may not show any symptoms.
Some cancers and diseases caused by HPV
Cervical Cancer
Anal Cancer
Vaginal Cancer
Vulvar Cancer
Genital Warts
But how doesHPV Spread?
HPV transmission takes place mainly through sexual contact
*Sexually active individuals are at risk of HPV infection at some point in their life.
HPV complications to look out for
There are 200+ types of HPV out there. Out of these, there are some prevalent HPV types that may lead to certain HPV-related cancers and diseases.
For most people, HPV clears on its own. . But for those who don't clear the virus, it can cause certain cancers and diseases
90% of anogenital warts are caused by low-risk HPV types (6 and 11)
Certain HPV-related cancers are caused by high-risk HPV types (16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58)
How can HPV affect your health?
Here are the approximate cases of certain HPV-related cancers in India, reported annually due to high-risk HPV types.(*Based on FOGSI’s Update in Obstetrics and Gynaecology 2022 )
Cervical cancer
1,23,907 cases
Vaginal cancer
5,518 cases
Vulvar cancer
3,447 cases
Anal cancer
5,452 cases
HPV is a silent invader
HPV often presents no symptoms. Most people who have it do not realize and may spread it to others unknowingly during sexual contact.
A word of caution
Around 80% of sexually active men and women may get an HPV infection at some point in their lives.
Experts believe that 80% sexually active adults can develop an HPV infection in their lifetime.
If not you, it could be someone you know. Take a look at HPV infection statistics around the globe.
Certain HPV Related Cancer and Diseases can be Prevented
But, only sexual monogamy and using condoms is not a fool-proof HPV prevention method.
Women, even those with a single partner, are at risk of getting HPV.
Talk to your gynaecologist for HPV awareness
Learning about HPV symptoms, HPV types and how to identify HPV related genital warts is an important part of sexual wellness.
Help protect against certain HPV-related cancers and diseases
Frequently Asked Questions
How does HPV spread?
HPV primarily spreads through sexual contact.
What are the early signs and symptoms of HPV infection?
HPV may not always present with
symptoms. Most people who have it do not
realize and may spread it to others unknowingly
during sexual contact.