Papilloma virus infection does not always cause warts and tumors. But prevention against HPV is always recommended.
Human papillomavirus (or HPV) infection is the leading cause of cervical cancers. However, this only happens if the virus in question belongs to a “high-risk” strain, which has managed to escape the control of the immune system.
As with all sexually transmitted infections, to protect yourself it is sufficient to use a condom during each intercourse. But in the case of the Papilloma virus we also have an extra weapon at our disposal: vaccination.
What is Papilloma virus?
The human papilloma virus belongs to a family of viruses of which there are more than 120 different types. They come to infect at least 70% of women, and a smaller share of men, in their lifetime.
What can HPV cause?
It is primarily responsible for cervical (or cervical) cancer. About 70% of these carcinomas are associated with HPV types 16 or 18. Other strains, particularly 6 and 11, cause genital warts.
How can you get infected?
The virus is transmitted during sexual intercourse (including oral-genital and) by direct contact between the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person and those of one who has never previously encountered that strain of HPV.
How can you defend yourself from Papilloma virus infection?
With vaccination that has a maximum effectiveness in those who have not yet had sexual intercourse. Two vaccines are available: one bivalent against strains 16 and 18 and the other quadrivalent against HPV 16 and 18 and types 6 and 11.
When is vaccination indicated?
In Italy, vaccination is offered free of charge to all girls between 11 and 12 years of age. Some regions have taken steps to offer it to young people. In males, HPV can cause, in addition to warts, cancer of the anus, penis and oral cavity.
What vaccine is used against HPV?
In Italy, the different regions decide autonomously on the choice of one or the other product to be administered in vaccination programs. There are no comparative studies with large case studies. Both are valid and safe.
How is vaccination performed?
It is administered intramuscularly. The doses change according to age: between 9 and 14 years inclusive, two are administered 6 months apart. After the age of 15, three doses are administered at the time 0, 1, 6 months.
Does the vaccine replace periodic screening?
Vaccination does not prevent all HPV infections that can cause cancer, because it only protects against lesions caused by strains 16 and 18. It is therefore necessary to continue to follow the screening programs with the Pap test and the Hpv DNA test.
Who should screen for Papilloma virus?
Sexually active women, including vaccinated women, should have a Pap test starting at age 25, every three years. From the age of 30, the Hpv DNA test is recommended every five years, also performing the Pap test in case of positivity to this test.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.