The human papillomavirus

HPV stands for human papillomavirus. 80-90% of people become infected with it at some point in their life. Normally, the infection resolves on its own within two years, but not always. ¹

What are the consequences?

When the body fails to clear the HPV infection, this can lead to developing cancer in the following areas:

• Anus
• Cervix
• Mouth and pharynx
• Penis
• Vagina
• Vulva

These cancers typically occur later in life, but cervical cancer can affect women as early as 30-35 years old. Certain types of HPV can also cause genital warts or warts on the vocal cords and airways, known as laryngeal and tracheal papillomas. ^1.2

HPV usually spreads through sexual contact, including
vaginal, anal, or oral sex, but also through skin-to-skin
contact during sex. The virus is highly contagious, and
even sharing a towel with an infected person can lead to
contracting genital warts. ^1-3

Am I at risk?

Everyone can get infected with the virus, but certain groups have a higher risk of developing HPV-related diseases.^2,4,5 This includes, for example:

• People with HIV
• People who smoke
• People with a weakened immune system
• People with frequent and varied sexual contacts
• Men who have sex with men (MSM)
• Women with cervical precancerous lesions (CIN2-3)

In most cases, you don’t notice an infection with HPV and your body clears up the virus on its own. If this does not happen, an HPV infection can lead to developing
cancer or warts. The initial symptoms may include ^1,2:

• In case of cancer: a burning sensation, bleeding, pain and abnormalities on the anus, penis, labia, and in the mouth and throat.
• In case of warts in the genital area: itching and irritation in this area.
• In case of warts on the vocal cords or airways: breathing problems.

There are three ways to protect yourself against the consequences of HPV¹:

• Vaccination.
• Participating in cervical cancer screening (only for women).
• Using a condom during sex.^*
  *Condoms do not protect you fully against an HPV-infection.