The Relationship Between HPV and Cancer – 10 Debated Claims and the Facts

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is very common, but people’s knowledge about this virus is somewhat confused. Who can get HPV? How is it transmitted? Can it be treated? How safe and effective are HPV vaccines? In this article, we will try to answer questions like these and clarify confusing information about HPV. Knowing the facts about HPV-related cancer can prevent a high proportion of the associated cancers.

Human papillomaviruses are a group of over 200 viruses. More than 40 of them can be transmitted from person to person. HPV types can spread easily through direct person-to-person contact (sexual and skin contact from the skin and mucous membranes of infected people to those of their partners). They can spread through vaginal, anal and oral sex. Some HPV types cause warts transmitted through nonsexual routes.

Claim 1: Only women get HPV

Fact: HPV occurs in both women and men. Approximately % 80 of people experience an HPV infection at some point in their lives. HPV may disappear on its own or persist. Remaining genital warts may lead to health problems, particularly various types of cancer. These cancer types include cervical cancer, anal cancer, penile cancer and head and neck cancers among them.

- Related topic: What is HPV – Human Papillomavirus, and how does it cause cancer?

Claim 2: HPV is transmitted only through sexual intercourse

Fact: HPV spreads through both sexual intercourse and skin contact. Although most cases involve sexual transmission, the virus can also be transmitted without sexual intercourse. Condom use provides a significant barrier but does not offer complete protection against the virus.

Claim 3: HPV infection always causes symptoms

Fact: Most people with HPV do not know they have contracted the virus. In % 90 of cases, the immune system engages in a prolonged fight against the infection and usually overcomes this viral infection within two years.

- Related topic: Cervical cancer symptoms and treatment

Claim 4: There is no way to prevent genital warts and cancers caused by HPV

Fact: HPV vaccines can prevent more than %90 of HPV-related cancers. The vaccine is thought to be effective for at least 10 years. However, it is also expected to provide longer protection. The ideal age for vaccination is 11-12 for both girls and boys.

- Related topic: The HPV Vaccination Guide Has Been Updated! Let us take this opportunity to learn what the HPV vaccine is

Claim 5: All HPV vaccines are the same

Fact: FDA has approved three HPV vaccines, among which there are several important differences. Cervarix targets HPV subtypes 16 and 18 and aims to protect only against cervical cancer, whereas Gardasil 4targets HPV subtypes 6, 11, 16 and 18 and protects against cervical, anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and head and neck cancers. These vaccines provide more than % 70 protection against cervical cancers.

Gardasil 9provides protection against nine types of HPV. It can prevent approximately % 90 of cervical cancers. Gardasil vaccines can also prevent genital warts. Your doctor can recommend the most suitable vaccine for you or your child.

Claim 6: There is a treatment for HPV

Fact: Unfortunately, there is no treatment for the virus, but effective protection through vaccination is possible. There are also various treatments for health problems caused by HPV, such as precancerous lesions and genital warts.

- Related topic: What does an abnormal Pap smear test result mean?

Claim 7: HPV affects pregnancy

Fact: In most cases, HPV does not affect a woman’s chances of becoming pregnant. If you are pregnant and have HPV, you may have genital warts or abnormal cell changes in your cervix. Obstetricians and gynecologists are experienced in these changes, which can be detected through regular screening, and can treat them. There is no problem with becoming pregnant after HPV vaccination; the vaccine does not affect a fetus.

Claim 8: If you have received the HPV vaccine, you can skip Pap smear testing

Fact: You should definitely have your Pap smear test. Because HPV vaccination does not prevent every type of HPV that can cause cervical cancer, women aged 21-29 should have a smear test every three years, even if vaccinated. In addition to smear tests, women aged 30-64 should be tested for HPV every five years.

- Related topic: Current Cancer Screening Programs: Which Tests Allow Early Diagnosis of Which Cancers?

Claim 9: HPV vaccination may cause dangerous medical problems

Fact: The HPV vaccine is a safe medicine and does not increase health problems. As with other vaccines or medicines, mild allergic reactions may occur. The most common issue is pain or redness in the arm where the vaccine was given.

Claim 10: HPV vaccination increases sexual activity

Fact: There is no research on the effect of HPV vaccination on sexual activity. Being vaccinated also does not mean that unprotected sexual intercourse is acceptable.

Finally;

The most important factor increasing the likelihood that an infection with a high-risk HPV type will progress to cancer is the use of tobacco and tobacco products.

To protect against HPV and minimize the risk of progression to cancer

It is recommended to keep this information in mind, engage in monogamous and/or protected sexual intercourse and receive vaccination at the appropriate time. The HPV vaccine can protect against high-risk HPV types that may cause cancer. Boys and girls aged 11-12 should be vaccinated. During this process, the immune system works to respond to the vaccine. In addition, women can be vaccinated up to age 26 and men up to age 21 (up to 26 in some cases).