HPV-Related Cancers

The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a group of more than 150 related viruses. While certain forms of the virus cause common skin warts, others can lead to cancer. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people are diagnosed with HPV-related cancers worldwide. HPV is responsible for more than 90% of anal and cervical cancers; about 70% of vaginal, vulvar and oropharyngeal (middle throat) cancers; and more than 60% of penile cancers.

While vaccination against HPV is an effective tool for preventing the majority of these cancers from developing, the incidence of HPV-related cancers is rising each year. Therefore, the HPV-Related Cancers Moon Shot^® has assembled a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary team of experts in many cancer types to address unmet needs for these patients. By leveraging the unique resources available only at MD Anderson through the Moon Shots Program^®, this team is committed to advancing new therapeutic approaches and informative biomarkers through its three flagship projects.