Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
March 2, 2007
By: Maureen Killackey, MD, FACOG, FACS
Dr. Killackey is a board certified gynecologic oncologist and
Deputy Physician-in-Chief and Medical Director of the Regional Care Network,
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the name for a group of more than 100 viruses, over 30 of which are sexually transmitted. HPV is extremely common, in fact, studies suggest that at least three out of every four people who are sexually active will contract a genital HPV infection in their lifetime. Certain types of HPV are linked to cervical cancer as well as genital warts.
In June 2006, the FDA approved the HPV vaccine, Gardasil®, which protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18, which are responsible for 70 percent of cervical cancers and 90 percent of genital warts cases. The vaccine triggers a woman’s immune system to fight off these viruses if she is exposed to them. With widespread use, HPV vaccination has the potential to lower the occurrence of cervical cancer in future generations.
The HPV vaccine consists of three doses given over a 6 month period. ACOG recommends the vaccination of females age 9-26 against HPV. The vaccine is most effective if administered before the onset of sexual activity. Therefore it is recommended that females routinely receive the vaccine between the ages of 11 and 12.
There is no cure for HPV, so it is best to take steps to prevent it. In addition to vaccination, there are a few steps one can take to reduce their risk of contracting HPV. HPV is common, particularly in young women who have recently become sexually active, and every sexual encounter with a new partner is accompanied by the risks of HPV infection. Therefore, limiting new sexual partners can reduce a person’s risk of acquiring HPV. Using latex condoms during sexual intercourse can also reduce the likelihood of contracting HPV or other sexually transmitted diseases. However, because HPV can affect areas of the genital skin that condoms do not protect, they may not be 100% effective in the prevention of HPV.
Women must bear in mind that the HPV vaccine protects against HPV types that account for only 70% of cervical cancers and only 90% of genital warts cases. Therefore, HPV vaccination is a preventive tool and is not a substitute for cancer screening. HPV infection has no obvious symptoms, as a result, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women begin Pap tests no more than three years after becoming sexually active, or by the time they are 21 years old. Women up to age 30 should receive an annual Pap. Women who are 30 years or older and have had 3 or more consecutive, normal tests may be screened every 2-3 years. ACOG does not recommend the HPV DNA test for women younger than 30. Women over 30 may have an HPV DNA test at the same time as a Pap. If both results are normal, a Pap test and HPV DNA test may not be needed for another three years.
Talk to your doctor about how to prevent HPV for yourself or your daughter.
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