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Human papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection. It causes cervical cancer and cancer of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis and oropharynx. 80% of sexually active people are infected at some point.
HPV and cancer
Cervical cancer: HPV causes >99% of cases. Types 16 and 18 are responsible for 70%
Other gynaecological cancers: Vulva, vagina. See gynaecological tumours
Anal cancer: 90% related to HPV
Oropharyngeal cancer: Incidence rising because of HPV
Prevention
HPV vaccine: Protects against types 16 and 18 (cancer-causing) and 6 and 11 (warts). Recommended at age 9-14, before becoming sexually active. Efficacy >90% if vaccination is completed before exposure
Cervical screening: Cytology every 3 years (age 25-65) or HPV test every 5 years (age >30). Detects treatable precancerous lesions
Condoms: Reduce (but do not eliminate) the risk of transmission
Diagnosis and treatment
HPV infection: usually without symptoms, it clears spontaneously in 80-90% of cases within 1-2 years
Precancerous lesions (CIN, VIN): outpatient treatment (conisation, laser, cryotherapy) prevents progression to cancer
Established cancer: requires cancer treatment (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy)
Worried about HPV? Regular screening detects precancerous lesions in time. Consult our specialists.