Human Papilloma Virus - Cancers and Prevention
In 2020, the latest year for which incidence data are available, in the United States, 11,542 new cases of Cervical cancer were reported among women, and 4,272 women died of this cancer. For every 100,000 women, 3.9 to 5.7 new Cervical cancer cases were reported in Arizona, a relatively lower rate than nationwide(7 per 1lakh) and 2 women died of this cancer.
Cervical cancer stands as the most prevalent HPV-associated cancer in women. Oro-pharyngeal cancers, which include cancers of the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils, are the most common among men.
What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S., consisting of over 200 strains. HPV types are classified as "non-oncogenic" (wart-causing) or "oncogenic" (cancer-causing) depending on whether they pose a risk for cancer. Certain HPV types can cause cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and specific head and neck cancers (particularly oropharynx).
How is HPV transmitted?
HPV can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person, even if they show no symptoms.
Who can get HPV?
Both men and women can get HPV. Women can be tested for HPV, but there's no routine testing available for men. However, men can receive the HPV vaccine to prevent genital warts and certain cancers.
What percentage of various cancers are attributed to HPV?
HPV is responsible for over 90% of anal and cervical cancers, around 70% of vaginal and vulvar cancers, and 60% of penile cancers. Additionally, recent studies suggest that 60% to 70% of oropharynx cancers may be linked to HPV.
How does an HPV infection lead to cancer?
When the body fails to clear an HPV infection, particularly with high-risk HPV types, it can lead to the transformation of normal cells into abnormal cells and eventually cancer.
How to prevent high-risk HPV infections and its related cancers?
HPV vaccinations. Three HPV vaccines—9-valent HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9, 9vHPV), quadrivalent HPV vaccine (Gardasil, 4vHPV), and bivalent HPV vaccine (Cervarix, 2vHPV)—have been licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). All three HPV vaccines protect against HPV types 16 and 18 which cause most HPV cancers.
Can the HPV vaccine prevent oropharyngeal cancers?
Yes, the HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that can cause oropharyngeal cancers, thus potentially preventing such cancers.
What is the recommended age and dose for routine HPV vaccination?
Routine HPV vaccination is recommended for individuals aged 11-12, but it can start as early as 9 years. Two doses of the HPV vaccine are recommended for individuals aged 9-14 years. The second dose for individuals aged 9-14 years should be given 6-12 months after the first dose.
Three doses of the HPV vaccine are recommended for individuals who receive the first dose on or after their 15th birthday. The CDC recommends HPV vaccination for 11- to 12-year-olds and for everyone through age 26 years if not vaccinated already.
Resources for HPV Vaccination:
Arizona Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program: Provides eligible children with free vaccines, including the HPV vaccine, to ensure all adolescents have access to life-saving immunizations. Learn more- Arizona Department of Health Services website.
Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS): AHCCCS offers comprehensive healthcare coverage for eligible children and adolescents in Arizona. visit the AHCCCS website.
Local Health Departments and Community Health Centers: Reach out to your local health department or community health center to access affordable or free HPV vaccinations for adolescents in Arizona. Many health centers serve uninsured or underinsured individuals, ensuring equitable access to preventive care.