Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
What Is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common group of DNA viruses with many types that affect the skin and mucous membranes. Most sexually active people encounter HPV at some point in their lives. The infection often causes no symptoms and is usually brought under control by the immune system within 1–2 years.
HPV can be transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral sexual contact, as well as close skin-to-skin contact in the genital area. Penetration or visible warts are not required for transmission. Condom use reduces the risk but does not provide complete protection because it does not cover the entire genital area.
HPV Types and Their Effects on Health
Not all HPV types have the same effects. Some low-risk types can cause genital warts. Persistent infection with certain high-risk types can lead to precancerous cellular changes in the cervix. HPV-related cancers include cancers of the cervix, anus, vulva, vagina and penis, as well as some oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the back of the throat). A positive HPV result alone is not a cancer diagnosis; most infections do not progress to cancer.
Detecting HPV does not indicate when the infection was acquired. The infection can remain without symptoms for a long time; therefore, a positive result does not indicate that a partner acquired the infection recently or that infidelity has occurred.
What Is an HPV Test Used For?
An HPV DNA test looks for genetic material from the HPV types covered by the test in the collected sample. HPV tests used in cervical cancer screening primarily assess high-risk HPV types. An HPV test is not the same as a Pap smear: an HPV test examines the virus's genetic material, while a Pap smear examines changes in cervical cells. The doctor decides how the tests should be used, taking into account the person's age, previous results and medical history.
An HPV test is not a general test that detects infection in every part of the body. Routine screening tests are used to prevent cervical cancer; there is no approved routine HPV test for screening men or for screening for HPV in the mouth or throat.
WHO recommends HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer screening in the general population every 5–10 years, starting at age 30. The starting age and screening interval differ for people living with HIV. As national screening programmes and individual follow-up needs may vary, the appropriate timing should be determined with your doctor. Vaccinated people should also continue the cervical screening recommended for them.
HPV Testing at Wellcare
Wellcare Laboratories performs HPV DNA genotyping on cervical swab samples to detect a total of 35 HPV types, including 18 high-risk and 17 low-risk types. An HPV test or its result alone does not establish a cancer diagnosis. In the event of a positive result, follow-up is planned by the doctor based on the type detected, the Pap smear result and the person's clinical history. Learn more about HPV testing at our laboratory.
HPV Prevention
- Discuss HPV vaccination with your doctor based on your age and health status. The vaccine helps prevent new HPV infections and some HPV-related diseases; it does not treat an existing infection.
- Use condoms correctly and consistently; remember that the risk is reduced but not completely eliminated.
- Attend recommended cervical cancer screenings.
- If you smoke, seek support to quit.
HPV vaccination and regular cervical screening are among the main ways to prevent HPV-related cancers.