HPV Facts

  • HPV stands for Human Papilloma (pap-il-oh-ma) –Virus
  • HPV is a common virus that can affect both Men and Women.
  • There are about 30 different types of HPV that affect the genital area.
  • The most commonly diagnosed types are 6, 11, 16 and 18.
  • HPV Types 6 and 11 cause 90% of Genital Warts cases.
  • HPV Types 16 and 18 cause 70% of Cervical Cancer cases.
  • All types of genital HPV can cause abnormal Pap Test results.
  • According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a woman’s first Pap Test (Pap Smear) should be 3 years after becoming sexually active, or at age 21 – whichever occurs first.  After that, a Pap Test should be part of a yearly exam.
  • For most people, HPV will clear up on its own, but for some women who do not clear certain types of the virus, Cervical Cancer can develop.
  • There are an estimated 6 million new cases of genital HPV in the United States every year. 74% of these cases occur in 15-24 year olds. This is about 4 million young adults per year and 12,000 per day.
  • The Center for Disease control (CDC) estimates that 8 out of 10 women will become infected with genital HPV in their lifetime.
  • About 60% of women become infected with HPV during their college years.
  • HPV often has no sign or symptoms, so most people don’t realize that they have it. This means that people can pass the virus on without knowing it.
  • There is only one sure-fire way to prevent HPV – to avoid any sexual activity that involves contact with the genital area.
  • The HPV vaccine is recommended for girls aged 9-26 years old. It should be given before sexual activity begins (before contact with the HPV virus.)
  • The Center for Disease Control (CDC) says that condoms may reduce the risk of getting HPV if used constantly and correctly. However, HPV can affect areas that are not covered by a condom, so condoms may not fully protect against HPV.
  • HPV is also linked to other less common cancers such as vaginal and vulvar (cancer of the vulva). About half of the diagnosed cases of cancer of the vulva and vagina are caused by HPV.
  • 80% of all sexually active women will have an HPV infection by age 50, often without any symptoms. For most women, your immune system will fight off the infection in 6 to 24 months. HPV is as common as a cold, so there is no need to be embarrassed or ashamed.
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