Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is caused by a DNA virus from the Papillomaviridae family. Most HPV infections cause no symptoms and 90% resolve spontaneously within two years. However, in some cases, an HPV infection persists and results in either warts or precancerous lesions. The virus is primarily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.
- Types of HPV Infections:
- Warts: Many HPV infections cause no symptoms and resolve spontaneously within two years. However, some result in warts, which can appear in different forms:
- Genital warts: Flat lesions, small cauliflower-like bumps, or tiny stem-like protrusions on the genitals, anus, cervix, or vagina.
- Common warts: Rough, raised bumps on the hands and fingers.
- Plantar warts: Hard growths on the heels or balls of the feet.
- Flat warts: Slightly raised, flat-topped lesions on various body parts.
- Cancer: Certain HPV strains can cause different types of cancer, including cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, vulvar, and oropharyngeal cancers.
- Warts: Many HPV infections cause no symptoms and resolve spontaneously within two years. However, some result in warts, which can appear in different forms:
- Transmission:
- HPV infections are often transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.
- Vaccines can protect against specific HPV strains that cause genital warts or cervical cancer.
- Treatment and Prevention:
- Warts often resolve without treatment, but medications or procedures may be used.
- Prevention includes safe sexual practices, vaccination, and following medical advice.
Relation of HPV with Cervical Cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is closely linked to cervical cancer. Here are some the key points:
- HPV and Cervical Cancer:
- Cause: Long-lasting (persistent) infection with high-risk types of HPV is responsible for almost all cervical cancers.
- High-Risk Types: HPV 16 and HPV 18 cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers worldwide.
- Prevention: Regular screenings (such as Pap smears) are crucial for early detection. The HPV vaccine also helps prevent cervical cancer.
- Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer:
- Other Factors: While HPV is the primary cause, other factors can increase the risk of cervical cancer:
- Younger age.
- HIV infection (increases risk sixfold).
- Having other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) alongside HPV.
- Smoking.
- Family history of cervical cancer.
- Long-term use of contraceptive pills (risk diminishes after 10 years of use).
- Other Factors: While HPV is the primary cause, other factors can increase the risk of cervical cancer:
- Screening and Prevention:
- Regular Pap smears from age 21 onward help detect abnormal cell changes.
- If abnormal cells are found, they can be removed through various methods.
- HPV vaccination is essential for prevention.
Most HPV infections do not progress to cancer, but regular screenings are crucial for early detection and timely intervention. If you experience symptoms like unusual bleeding, pain, or changes in discharge, consult a healthcare professional promptly
The HPV vaccine is a crucial tool in preventing certain types of cancer caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Who Should Get HPV Vaccine?
- Preteens: HPV vaccination is recommended at ages 11–12 years, but it can start as early as age 9.
- Teens and Young Adults: Up to age 26, those who haven’t completed the vaccine series should get vaccinated.
- Dosing: Two doses if started before age 15, three doses if started later.
- Types of HPV Vaccines:
- Gardasil-9 (9vHPV): Protects against nine HPV types (including 16, 18, 31, 33, and 45).
- Effectiveness: HPV vaccination prevents over 90% of HPV-attributable cancers.
- Who Should Not Get HPV Vaccine?
- People with severe allergies to vaccine ingredients or yeast.
- Pregnant individuals.
- Those with moderate or severe illness should wait until they recover.
The HPV vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus. It protects against genital warts, cervical cancer, and other HPV-related cancers. If you have any specific concerns, consult your healthcare provider.
HPV Vaccination Against Cervical Cancer Focus on Africans
Efforts to combat cervical cancer, more African nations are focusing on HPV vaccination. However, challenges persist, including misinformation about the vaccine.
- Cervical Cancer Burden in Africa:
- Cervical cancer is a significant health issue in Africa, with high mortality rates.
- In 2020, an average of 190 women died daily from cervical cancer in Africa, accounting for 23% of global deaths.
- Eighteen of the 20 countries with the highest cervical cancer rates are in Africa.
- HPV Vaccination Efforts:
- Over half of Africa’s 54 nations (28 countries) have introduced the HPV vaccine in their immunization programs.
- However, only five countries have achieved the desired 90% vaccination coverage.
- In contrast, most European countries vaccinate both girls and boys against HPV.
- Challenges and Misinformation:
- Misconceptions, such as the unfounded rumor that the HPV vaccine affects fertility, hinder progress.
- Limited access to screening exacerbates the cervical cancer burden.
- The WHO aims to eliminate cervical cancer through vaccination and improved healthcare infrastructure.
Vaccination is a critical tool in preventing cervical cancer, and addressing misinformation is essential for successful HPV vaccination programs.
Common Side Effects of the HPV Vaccine
The most common side effects of the HPV vaccine are usually mild and include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling in the arm where the shot was given.
- Fever.
- Dizziness or fainting (fainting after any vaccine, including HPV vaccine, is more common among adolescents than others).
- Nausea.
- Headache or feeling tired.
- Muscle or joint pain.
Read More News: 1) Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms,Causes, Treatment & 5 Preventive Measures
2) Banana:Top 7 Effects on Your Body If You Eat A Banana Every Day?
