Why be concerned about HPV?

With all the media attention on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for young girls, many older women mistakenly believe HPV isn’t relevant to them. HPV, a sexually transmitted virus, causes almost all cases of cervical cancer. The National Cancer Institute estimates 11,270 new cases and 4,070 deaths from cervical cancer in the U.S. in 2009. And worldwide, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women.

An estimated 80% of women will get HPV in their lifetime. Most people do not realize they have HPV and the infection only rarely leads to cervical cancer – typically the infection will clear on its own. However, in rare cases, the body is unable to clear the HPV infection and cervical cancer can develop. Early detection is critical because cervical cancer usually does not cause any symptoms until it has advanced to a late stage.

You Can Prevent Cervical Cancer

Although Pap tests continue to be an important screening tool, Pap smears miss up to 40% of precancerous lesions. Therefore, HPV screening should also be included as a part of your regular annual exam. The HPV screening will detect the cancer causing types of HPV and identify women at risk for cervical cancer. Most cervical cancer can be prevented.  So be diligent about your annual exam and ask your healthcare provider to include the HPV test along with your next Pap!

The following resources provide additional information regarding HPV and cervical cancer:

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