Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women.
HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is a group of viruses that commonly infect the reproductive tract. It’s important to note that most adults will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives, and some may experience repeated infections. Book now and get protected.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a small DNA virus that infects skin or mucosal cells, affecting 91% of men and 85% of women. Certain HPV strains cause warts, while others are linked to various types of cancer.
A person with HPV can pass the infection to someone even when they have no signs or symptoms. You can get HPV by having any intimate relation with someone who has the virus.
In the majority of cases (9 out of 10), HPV resolves spontaneously within two years without causing health issues. However, persistent HPV infections can lead to problems such as genital warts and cancer. Genital warts typically manifest as small, raised bumps in the genital region, varying in size and shape. Healthcare providers can typically diagnose warts through visual examination of the genital area.
HPV can lead to various cancers, such as cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus. Additionally, it can contribute to oropharyngeal cancer, which affects areas like the base of the tongue and tonsils.
HPV doesn’t affect only women. More than 4 out of 10 cases of cancer caused by HPV occur among men. Therefore, it is equally essential for both men and women to receive vaccination against HPV.
HPV vaccination is typically recommended from ages 9 to 26. Preteens should ideally receive the vaccine between 11 and 12 years old to prevent HPV-related cancers later in life. However, individuals up to age 26 who haven’t completed the series should still get vaccinated. Some adults aged 27 to 45 may also consider vaccination after discussing their risk factors with their doctor.
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