HPV and cancer: The underappreciated connection

Did you know that a viral infection can lead to a number of different types of cancer? If that comes as a surprise to you, you’re not alone. In fact, according to a new study, many people have no idea that a common viral infection called human papilloma virus (HPV) can cause cancer of the genitals, anus, mouth, and throat, as well as cervical cancer. Viral infections and cancer The connection between certain viral infections and cancer has been recognized for many years. Some of the most well-established examples include hepatitis C, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and human papillomavirus (HPV). One thing these viruses have in common is that the immune system may have trouble fighting them off, allowing an infection to become chronic. HPV and cancer According to the CDC, HPV causes about 44,000 cancers in men and women each year in the US. The connection between HPV and cancer is particularly important to know about, because there is an approved vaccine to prevent many strains of HPV infection most closely linked to cancer. And it works: since the approval of the initial vaccine in 2006, rates of HPV infection and cervical cancer have dropped significantly. Unfortunately, far too few kids and young adults receive the vaccine. Perhaps a lack of awareness of the link to different cancers is one reason for the low numbers, even though the connection has been known for many years. Besides cervical cancer, HPV can also cause cancers of the mouth and throat penis anus vagin...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Adolescent health Cancer Infectious diseases Men's Health Sexual Conditions Vaccines Women's Health Source Type: blogs