30 Jan HPV and Cancer: A Closer Look at Their Linkage

Have you ever come across a virus that can initiate a highly dangerous form of cancer, potentially resulting in fatal outcomes in severe cases? Thus far, the most feared viruses that people are familiar with are undoubtedly the coronavirus and, to a lesser extent, HIV. However, another virus which is far more dreadful is Human papilloma Virus.

HPV or Human Papilloma Virus is an ever increasing but still an unknown collection of viruses that has far-reaching consequences. If left untreated and undetected, it can cause different types of cancer including cancers of cervix, vagina, and vulva in women, penis in males, anal in both men and women, back of the throat including base of the tongue and tonsils (oropharynx), in both males and females.

In this post, we will try to deep dive into learning more about HPV through some facts and common questions encountered and how it can be prevented. Our aim here is to make our readers more aware about the ill effects of this virus and that it can be as scary as death. It’s our little effort to spread a word as they say, “half knowledge is better than no knowledge.”

The Basics

HPV is a group of viruses of more than 200 varieties, which can be arranged into two categories: low risk and high risk. Low-risk strains habitually do not lead to illnesses, yet they can generate warts on or around the genitals, rectum, or windpipe. In contrast, high-risk HPVs have the potential to cause more severe health consequences, counting cancer. Specifically, HPV16 and HPV18 are mainly responsible for HPV-linked malignancies. Almost all sexually active individuals acquire HPV within a few years of their sexual debut. Surprisingly, nearly half of these infections are high-risk HPV strains. It’s essential to recognize that HPV is indiscriminate—it doesn’t differentiate between sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Everyone can be affected by its hidden presence. Under regular conditions, the immune system acts as a protector against HPV infections, keeping them under control and halting any significant harm. This is why most of the high-risk HPV infections don’t progress to cancer; the protective immune system is typically capable of containing them. Nevertheless, in certain cases, high-risk HPV infections outwit the immune system and bring about molecular alterations, which, if left unattended, may bring about cancer.

HPV Associated Cancers and How does it spread?

HPV doesn’t just cause warts; it can also lead to various types of cancers. These cancers can develop in areas where HPV infects cells, like the genital region, throat (back of the throat), anus, organs, vagina, and vulva. While cervical cancer is strongly linked to HPV, regular screenings play a crucial role in preventing it. Additionally, HPV significantly increases the risk of pharyngeal cancers, anal cancer, penile cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulval cancer.

HPV is highly contagious and spreads easily through different forms of skin-to-skin contact, especially during intimate moments. This includes sexual activities like vaginal-penile intercourse, penile-anal intercourse, penile-oral intercourse, vaginal-oral intercourse, and even the use of sex toys or other objects. While using condoms and dental dams can lower the risk, they don’t provide complete protection against HPV.

The seriousness of high-risk HPV infections is notable because they often don’t show symptoms. Many people carrying the high-risk HPV strain are unaware of the infection in their bodies. This sneaky virus can lead to precancerous changes in certain areas, often without noticeable signs, underscoring the importance of regular cancer screenings. Sometimes, these precancerous lesions can cause itching and bleeding. On the flip side, more advanced stages of HPV may show signs similar to cancer, such as bleeding, pain, or swollen glands.

HPV becomes problematic when it infiltrates cells, disrupting their communication and causing uncontrolled cell growth—a process the immune system normally regulates. If the virus persists, it can lead to the formation of precancerous cells. If not treated, these cells can eventually transform into cancerous cells, a process that may take a decade or more. Persistent HPV infection can be influenced by factors ranging from the severity of the virus strain to the carrier’s lifestyle, such as smoking or a weakened immune system.

How can we prevent the infection?

Through Vaccination…yes, vaccination can help prevent this infection thereby reducing your chances to get the deadly cancer. Getting the HPV vaccine is incredibly important. It’s recommended for both girls and boys, and it’s best to start around the age of 11 or 12, though it can begin as early as 9. This vaccine is crucial for everyone because HPV can cause different cancers and genital warts in both boys and girls. The vaccine works best when you start before, you’re 15, and you’ll need two doses to be fully protected. If you begin the series later, up to age 26, three doses are recommended for the best protection.
For people between 27 and 45 who haven’t finished their HPV shots, getting vaccinated is still an option, but it might not work effectively.

As you get older, you’re more likely to have come across HPV already. Once a person gets HPV, the vaccine may not be as effective. That’s because the vaccine’s goal is to prevent new infections. If a person has the virus, the vaccine may not help the body clear out the vaccine.

So, normally, getting vaccinated isn’t something everyone in this age group does routinely. But if you’re worried about the chance of getting new HPV infections, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can help figure out if getting vaccinated is the right move for you.

Does the HPV vaccine offer benefits if you’re already sexually active?

People who are sexually active should talk with their healthcare team about the benefits of getting an HPV vaccine.
Most people catch HPV soon after they become sexually active. But even if you have one strain of HPV, you might still benefit from the vaccine. It can protect you from other strains that you don’t yet have.
But none of the vaccines can treat an existing HPV infection. The vaccines protect you only from specific strains of HPV you don’t have.

Is screening required even after getting vaccinated?

A big yes!!! The HPV vaccine doesn’t replace Pap tests. Screening for cervical cancer with regular Pap tests starting at age 21 is an essential part of preventive healthcare.
Get medical attention right away if you notice any symptoms of cervical cancer. Some symptoms are vaginal bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause; pelvic pain; or pain during sex.

In the fight against HPV and its serious health dangers, education and awareness are our main tools for defense. Knowing how common HPV is, understanding its subtle symptoms, and recognizing the crucial role of vaccination empowers each person to be in control of their health. By spreading this information in a way that everyone can understand, we can all work together to keep our community healthy and strive to get rid of this hidden but powerful threat. Awareness is like our protective gear, and getting vaccinated is our shield against the sneaky enemy that is HPV.

About Author

Akanksha Nagar is an intern with CAPED India and is currently pursuing MBA from SOIL Institute of Management.