Human Papilloma Virus
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the most commonly sexually transmitted diseases in the United States. About 20 million people in the U.S. have HPV and about 6.2 million get infected each year with this virus. 80% of all women will be infected by age 50. Anyone who is sexually active can become infected by HPV. There are more than 100 types of HPV. 30 of these diseases are genital.

HPV causes 3 complications:

  • Genital Warts- flesh colored growths around the genital area. These can appear inside the vagina and cervix, as well as around or in the anus. The warts are determined by seeing them, itching, or pain. Genital warts are treated by freezing, burning, or topical medications.
  • Cervical Cancer- cancer of the cervix. This can be life threatening and occurs when high risk HPV hasn't been treated. Cervical cancer is determined by a pap smear. Cervical cancer is treated by surgery to remove the cancer, radiation therapy to destroy the cancer cells, and chemotherapy (medications used to disturb cancer growth).
  • Abnormal Cervical Cells- occurs when cells in the cervical lining change in appearance. Severe abnormalities can cause cervical cancer. These cells are determined by a pap smear. Abnormal cervical cells are treated by freezing and surgery if they are severe. If they are mild, they are closely monitored and can possible go away on their own.

Prevention of HPV:

  • Limit sexual partners: Have a monogamous relationship. 
  • Use a condom: Although it may not cover all of the genital area, it does offer some coverage and protection.
  • Have regular doctor visits and follow ups: Ladies your annual pap smear. This can catch the cancer in its early stages.
  • Gardasil: This is the new vaccine for women against HPV. It is for females ages 9 through 26. Although it is not currently available for men, researchers are working on developing one for them.

Human Papiloma Virus Resources on the Web:

 

Human Papiloma Virus PowerPoints:

Free downloads for Acrobat Reader and PPT viewer:

Printer Friendly handouts for PPT slides:

Candace Dozier
cdozier45587@troy.edu

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Monday April 30, 2007
cdozier45587@troy.edu