HPV and Cancer Risk

Why is your sexual history is discussed as part of your cancer risk? In a nutshell, the reason is the Human Papilloma Virus or HPV.  It is well known that HPV is the cause of cervical cancer and dysplasia. However, HPV is a cause of many other types of cancers including cancer of the vagina, vulva, penis, anus and oral cavity (most often the tongue, tonsils, uvula, or oral cavity). 

HPV Facts

• There are over 200 types (strains) of HPV.
  • Some infect the skin or genital area and cause warts, others infect the genital area and can lead to cancer.
• HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection.
  • 80-85% of men and women are infected at some time in their lives.
• There is no treatment for HPV infection.
  • There is treatment for health problems that are caused by HPV like genital warts and cervical pre-cancer.
  • In most cases, the body's immune system will clear the infection on its own.
  • However, for some, the infection will remain and may lead to cancer in the infected area. 
• Researchers have found that smoking is one factor that makes it harder for the body to clear an HPV infection.

HPV and Sexual Health

• While HPV is referred to as a sexually transmitted infection, you do not need to have intercourse to contract HPV or give it to your partner. 
• HPV can be passed on during vaginal or anal penetration, oral sex (with either men or women), genital skin-to-skin sexual contact, or genital touching (masturbation).
• Experts do not know all the ways HPV is spread.
• Condom and/or dental dam (barrier method) use may decrease areas that are exposed.
  • Using barrier methods cannot totally prevent exposure completely since HPV can be found on the scrotum, inner thigh, and vulva. 
  • Higher numbers of sexual partners and earlier age of first sexual encounter may increase your exposure to HPV and your chances of being infected.
  • Studies have found that anal sex can increase the risk of anal cancers.
  • Oral sex (performed by or on either sex) can increase the risk of oral cancers. 

What can I do to lower my risk of HPV infection?

• Educate yourself about HPV and safer sexual practices.
• Get vaccinated. 
  • The HPV vaccine is recommended for all individuals age 12-26. 
  • It is approved for use up to age 45 however, insurance companies usually don't cover the HPV vaccine for individuals over the age of 26. 
  • Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk factors and vaccination.
  • Even if you already have HPV, you can still be vaccinated. The vaccine can protect you from other types of HPV.
  • Women should have routine pap tests to screen for cervical pre-cancer even if they are vaccinated.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for oral cancer screenings. Early detection of HPV-related oral cancers is important.

Resources for More Information

• The Centers for Disease Control
• Planned Parenthood
• The American Cancer Society
• The National Cancer Institute
• Learn more about anal cancer screening for people at high risk (Men who have sex with other men, HIV-positive people).
• Learn more about oral cancer screening.