FAQ's
What are Human Papillomavirus (HPVs)?
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are a group of more than 100 types of viruses. They are called papillomaviruses because certain types may cause warts or papillomas, which are benign (non-cancerous) growths. The HPVs that cause the common warts which grow on hands and feet are different from those that infect genitals and other areas.
How are HPVs transmitted?
Of the more than 100 types of HPVs, over 30 types can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Transmission of HPVs can occur through all forms of sexual contact including vaginal, oral or anal intercourse.
Although HPVs are usually transmitted sexually, doctors cannot say for certain when infection occurred. Most HPV infections come and go over the course of a few years. However, sometimes HPV infection persists for many years, with or without causing cell abnormalities.What is the association between HPV and cancer?
HPVs are now recognized as the major cause of cervical cancer in women. Studies also suggest that HPVs may play a role in cancers of the anus, vulva, vagina, and some cancers of the oropharynx (the middle part of the throat that includes the soft palate, the base of the tongue, and the tonsils). HPV infection is also a risk factor for penile cancer (cancer of the penis).
Are there specific types of HPVs that are associated with cancer?
Some types of HPVs are referred to as “low-risk” viruses because they rarely develop into cancer. HPVs that are more likely to lead to the development of cancer are referred to as “high-risk.” Both high-risk and low-risk types of HPVs can cause the growth of abnormal cells but generally only the high-risk type of HPVs may lead to cancer.
It is important to note, however, that the majority of HPV infections, including both low-risk and high-risk types, go away on their own and do not cause cancer.
What are genital warts?
Some types of HPVs may cause genital warts. Genital warts (also known as condylomata acuminatum) may appear after sexual contact with a person who is infected with HPV.
Genital warts can appear on the shaft or head of the penis or on a woman’s vagina, vulva or cervix. They can also be found around the anal regions in men and women. Genital warts can be treated by a doctor but often come back even after treatment.Can a person have a genital HPV infection and not know it?
Yes. In fact, HPV infections are usually completely asymptomatic, that is they cause no symptoms.
Is there a HPV test for males?
Currently, there is no medical standard for HPV testing in men. Consequently, HPV testing is not offered as a part of routine medical care in Hawaii or anywhere else (and is not covered by medical insurance). We test for HPV in men for research purposes only. Our male HPV study will be analyzing HPV DNA by taking swab samples from the penis and other sites.
HPV Partner Study TEL 564-5999 EMAIL hpvpartner@crch.hawaii.edu
Website viewed best with Internet Explorer 5.0 or above.
© 2005 Cancer Research Center of Hawaii. All rights reserved.