HPV Explained: The Virus, Symptoms, Cancer Risks, and Prevention
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HPV Explained: The Virus, Symptoms, Cancer Risks, and How to Protect Yourself
When it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HPV or Human Papillomavirus is one of the most common. In fact, most sexually active people will be infected at some point in their lives. While most HPV infections go away on their own, certain types can lead to serious health problems, including cancer.
What Is HPV?
HPV is a group of more than 100 related viruses. It spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, most often during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Many people never show symptoms and may not know they're infected, but they can still pass the virus to others.
Some types of HPV cause genital warts, while others known as high-risk HPV can cause changes in cells that may lead to cancer.
Types of HPV
There are two main categories of HPV: low-risk and high-risk.
Low-risk HPV types may cause genital warts but do not lead to cancer. High-risk types are linked to the development of several cancers and are responsible for the majority of HPV-related cancer cases. The most well-known high-risk types include HPV-16 and HPV-18.
HPV Symptoms
Most HPV infections have no symptoms and resolve naturally. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Genital warts (small growths or bumps on or around the genitals or anus)
- Common warts on the hands or fingers
- Plantar warts on the soles of the feet
- Flat warts on the face or legs
High-risk HPV types typically don't cause any noticeable symptoms, but they can lead to serious health issues over time, especially if undetected.
What Cancers Can HPV Cause?
HPV is a leading cause of several types of cancer. In the U.S., it's linked to approximately 36,000 cancer cases every year. These include:
- Cervical cancer (over 90% of cases are caused by HPV)
- Vaginal and vulvar cancers
- Penile cancer
- Anal cancer
- Oropharyngeal cancer (affecting the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue)
Oropharyngeal cancer is increasingly common, particularly among men, and is often related to oral HPV infections.
What Is Oral HPV?
Oral HPV spreads through oral sex or other intimate contact involving the mouth. Many people will be exposed to it at some point in their lives. While most oral HPV infections clear up on their own, persistent cases can lead to oropharyngeal cancer.
Warning signs of oropharyngeal cancer may include a chronic sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, swollen neck glands, or unexplained weight loss.
How to Prevent HPV
The best way to prevent HPV-related health problems is through vaccination. The HPV vaccine protects against the most common and dangerous strains of the virus. It works best when given before any exposure to the virus — typically before someone becomes sexually active.
The CDC recommends:
- Two doses for children and teens ages 9 to 14
- Three doses for individuals 15 to 26, or for anyone with a weakened immune system
- Adults ages 27 to 45 can consider vaccination after discussing with a healthcare provider
In addition to vaccination, you can lower your risk of HPV by using condoms correctly, limiting your number of sexual partners, and avoiding contact with visible warts or lesions.
The Importance of Screening
Even if you've received the HPV vaccine, regular screening remains important — especially for women. Routine Pap tests and HPV tests can detect abnormal cell changes before they develop into cancer. Screenings should start at age 21, or earlier if recommended by your provider.
The Bottom Line
HPV is extremely common, but it's also highly preventable. Vaccination, regular testing, and safer sexual practices can dramatically reduce your risk of HPV-related complications. If you're concerned about exposure or just want peace of mind, consider at-home STI testing with AllrangeKit™ — a private and easy way to take control of your health.
Go Beyond. Get Clarity. Live Well.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
Mayo Clinic: