HPV-related cancers
What Are HPV-Related Cancers?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common group of viruses that can affect the skin and mucous membranes. There are many types of HPV. Most infections are brought under control naturally by the immune system. However, persistent infection with high-risk HPV types can lead to certain cell changes and, over the years, cancer. Detecting HPV does not mean that a person has cancer.
How common is cervical cancer?
According to WHO and IARC global estimates for 2024, approximately 604.000 new cases of cervical cancer and 280.000 deaths occurred worldwide. The disease ranked fifth among the most common cancers in women and fourth among the causes of cancer-related deaths in women. This burden is greater in regions with limited access to screening and treatment services.
Which cancers are associated with HPV?
HPV is associated with certain cancers of the cervix, vagina and vulva in women; the penis in men; and the anus and mouth and throat in both women and men. HPV-related cancers usually take a long time to develop. Not everyone with an HPV infection develops cancer.
HPV types can generally be divided into two groups:
- High-risk types can lead to cell changes and cancer if the infection persists.
- Low-risk types can cause genital warts; they are different from the types associated with cancer.
Does an HPV test diagnose cancer?
No. An HPV test checks for the presence of the virus; it does not diagnose cancer on its own. In cervical screening, an HPV test, a Pap test or, where appropriate, a combination of these tests can help detect precancerous cell changes early. A positive HPV result requires assessment by a doctor and, if necessary, further investigation.
The sample used for an HPV test and its intended purpose are important. HPV tests used for cervical screening are performed on samples taken from the cervix; these tests are not used to screen for cancers of the mouth and throat or anus. The CDC states that there are currently no standard screening tests for the general population for HPV-related cancers other than cervical cancer.
When should cervical cancer screening be performed?
The screening age, method and interval may vary depending on the country's health programme, the person's age, previous test results and health status. WHO recommends starting screening with a high-performance test at age 30 in the general population and usually repeating it every 5–10 years. For people living with HIV, screening is recommended to start at age 25 and be repeated every 3–5 years. The local screening programme and the doctor's recommendations should be followed.
People who have received the HPV vaccine should also continue recommended cervical screening. Although the vaccine provides protection against important HPV types, it does not cover all cancer-associated types and does not treat an existing HPV infection.
Can the HPV vaccine prevent HPV-related cancers?
Yes. The HPV vaccine helps prevent infection with HPV types that can cause cancer. The best protection is achieved when the vaccine is given before exposure to HPV. WHO identifies children aged 9–14 as the priority group for vaccination; the number of doses may vary depending on age, immune status and the national vaccination programme. Discuss the appropriate age and dosing schedule for vaccination with a healthcare professional.
What are the symptoms of HPV-related cancers?
Precancerous cell changes often cause no symptoms. This is one of the reasons for regular cervical screening. Seek assessment by a doctor if you have bleeding after sexual intercourse or between periods, bleeding after menopause, or unusual and persistent vaginal discharge. These symptoms alone do not establish a diagnosis of HPV or cancer; they may have other causes.
Also consult a healthcare professional if you experience symptoms such as a sore that does not heal for a long time, a lump, pain or bleeding in the mouth and throat, anus, vulva or penis, or difficulty swallowing. If symptoms are present, a clinical assessment is needed rather than waiting for a screening test.
What can be done to protect against HPV?
- Get vaccinated against HPV in accordance with the national programme and your doctor's recommendations
- Continue cervical cancer screening at the recommended intervals
- Use condoms, while understanding that they can reduce the risk of HPV transmission but do not eliminate it completely
- Seek support to quit smoking if you smoke