Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and the HPV Vaccine
Questions and Answers on the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and the HPV Vaccine.
What is Human Papilloma Virus HPV?
The human papilloma viruses (HPVs) are a group of more than 100 viruses. They are called papilloma viruses because certain types may cause warts or papillomas, which are benign (noncancerous) tumors. About 60 HPVs types cause the common warts that grow on hands and feet. The other 40 HPVs are called mucosal types and are found in areas of the genital and anal areas. Some genital HPVs are associated with cancers, specifically cervical cancer. (99% of cervical cancers can be linked to HPV and 70% are caused by HPV types 16 or 18.) Please note: although nearly all cervical cancers are related to HPV, most genital HPV infections do not cause cervical cancer.
How do you get HPV?
Genital HPV is transmitted mainly by direct genital contact during vaginal or anal intercourse and is not spread through bodily fluids or live in blood or any organs. Infection is common within four years of having sex. About one-half to three-fourths of people who have had sex will have HPV some time in their lifetime.
Can HPV be treated?
No, treatments cannot cure HPV. Most genital HPV infections go away by the body’s immune system. About 70% of HPV infections are gone within one year and 90% are gone within two years. Although HPV cannot be treated, cell changes that come from HPV can be treated.
Is there a vaccine to prevent HPV?
In 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a vaccine that prevents two types of HPV (HPV 16 and 18).
The HPV vaccine has been tested in about 16,000 girls and young women in many countries. The most common side effect is soreness in the arm where the shot is given. The FDA has determined it is safe and effective for females 9 to 26. If anyone who has ever had a life-threatening reaction to yeast or any other component of the HPV vaccine (should the girl receiving the vaccine have severe allergies) tell the physician.
Who should be vaccinated?
In order for the vaccine to be most effective, it should be given prior to a female becoming sexually active. It also should be given in a three dose series within six months.
- Girls ages 11 to 12 and as early as 9.
- Girls ages 13 to 18 who have not yet started the vaccine series or who have started but have not completed the series.
- Young women 19 to 26.
The risk for HPV is highest soon after women become sexually active; therefore it is likely that women over 26 would have already been exposed to HPV and would not benefit as much from the vaccine. The ideal is to be vaccinated before exposure.
Please note: the vaccine does not replace routine pap tests. The vaccine only protects against specific HPV viruses. This vaccine is to help prevent HPV. Pap tests still need to be completed.
More Information:
References: the American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute.
Information Gathered: 1-2-08