Not many people are aware that HPV (human papillomavirus) is a dangerous sexually transmitted disease (STD). It is said that most sexually active people have contracted HPV at some point in their lives. Dr Pakhee Aggarwal, senior consultant, gynaecological oncology and robotic surgery, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, provides a few clarifying points:
- Roughly 80% of sexually active people contract a genital HPV infection at some point, as per CDC data. Usually, it occurs shortly after the onset of sexual activity.
- There are over 100 strains of HPV and about 40 strains can infect the genitals. Many infections are transient and asymptomatic, clearing the body within 1-2 years in 90% of cases.
- A small proportion have persistent high-risk HPV which can lead to cell abnormalities that may progress to cancer if left untreated.
How many varieties of HPV cause cancer?
Among the over 100 known types of HPV, a subset of strains is categorised by researchers as high-risk or oncogenic. These particular high-risk varieties are responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer and a substantial proportion of other genital as well as head and neck cancers. Specifically, there are approximately one dozen HPV types that are classified as carcinogenic strains worldwide.
What are the precautions to take?
- Get screened regularly with Pap tests and HPV testing.
- For other cancers like anal, oral, penile, etc, there may not be formal guidelines but discuss diagnostic exams with your doctor if you are high-risk.
- Get the HPV vaccine
- Practise safer sex
- Be alert to unusual changes like atypical growths, sores, lumps or discolourations around the genitals and mouth.
What are the earliest signs of cancer caused by HPV?
HPV is known to enhance the chance of acquiring some cancers. The early indications of HPV-caused cancer vary depending on the type of malignancy. Cervical cancer can cause irregular vaginal bleeding or unusual vaginal discharge. Anal cancer can be identified by signs such as anal haemorrhage or discharge, changes in bowel habits and pain or discomfort in the anal area. Changes in the colour or thickness of the penile skin, sores, lumps or ulcers on the penis and swelling at the tip of the penis may indicate a problem in cases of HPV-associated penile cancer.
What are the survival rates?
Survival rates for cancers caused by HPV can vary, depending on the disease kind, stage of diagnosis and treatment efficiency. The five-year survival rate for cervical cancer is over 92% in localised cases but declines to 56% in advanced stages. Anal cancer survival rates range from about 83% for localised cases to around 50% for those that have spread. Penile cancer survival rates vary, with rates of roughly 85% for localised cases and 20% for malignancies that have spread widely.
Can adults take the HPV vaccine?
Yes, adults over the age of 26 years can get the HPV vaccine. Many nations have licensed the HPV vaccine for people up to the age of 45 years.
