Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

What is HPV?

HPV is a virus that is spread by intimate skin-to-skin contact. While most cases are sexually transmitted, people who haven’t had intercourse can become infected. There are more than 150 types of the HPV virus. Several types cause genital warts. There are about 12 types – known as high-risk types -- that cause HPV-related cancer.

About 80% of people – both men and women – will get an HPV infection at some point in their lives. Most people with HPV don’t know they’re infected and never develop symptoms. The body most often clears the virus before it causes any health problems. But for some, the infection persists and can lead to precancerous changes.

HPV screening, including FDA-approved self-collection tests for HPV, can determine if a woman has a cervical HPV infection. There is no approved screening exam to detect HPV infections in other parts of the body in men or women. There is no drug or treatment that can eliminate the HPV virus from the body. However, there are ways to treat HPV-related health problems like precancerous lesions and genital warts.

HPV and cervical cancer

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. Because no vaccine prevents all types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer, vaccinated women age 21 to 29 should get cervical cancer screening (Pap tests) every three years.

Beginning at age 30 and through age 64, women should get a Pap test and and HPV test every five years.  The HPV test checks your cervix for the virus, which can cause abnormal cells that lead to cervical cancer. If the test is positive, you may need more frequent screening for cervical cancer.

HPV and throat cancer

Throat cancer is the most common HPV-related cancer in men. Throat cancer is also referred to as oropharyngeal cancer. It forms in the tonsils and around the base of the tongue. Women can also get this type of cancer from HPV infection.

About 75% of throat cancers are the result of HPV infections. There is no screening exam for throat cancer.

HPV vaccine

The HPV vaccine prevents most cervical cancers, anal cancers, vaginal cancers, and vulvar cancers. It reduces the risk of most HPV-related cancers of the throat and the penis, and it also prevents HPV-related genital warts in both men and women.

The HPV vaccine is given in two doses for males and females ages 9-14. From ages 15-45, three doses are required for full immunity. It is most effective when given at ages 11–12.

All males and females ages 9–26 should get the human papillomavirus vaccine. It is a safe and effective method of protection against HPV infection.

Unvaccinated men and women ages 27–45 should talk to their doctor about why it is beneficial.