HPV virus infection can cause warts and lesions that can develop into several types of cancer, especially on the cervix.
Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer in women and the fourth leading cause of cancer death among them in Brazil. The main risk factor is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is sexually transmitted.
The specialist doctor in family and community medicine, Dr. Vicente Leonides Prado Junco, explains that HPV infection has no symptoms and can go away on its own. However, in some cases, the infection persists and can lead to the development of painful genital organs.
Additionally, the infection can cause irritation and itching. It can also cause precancerous tumor lesions and other types of cancer located in the oropharynx, vagina, penis, anus and cervix.
HPV prevention
A HPV vaccine It is an effective way to prevent infection and its complications. There are currently three types of vaccines that protect against HPV. The nine-valent which protects against nine types of HPV, the quadrivalent which protects against four types of HPV and the bivalent which protects against two types of HPV.
The quadrivalent-recombinant vaccine (types 6, 11, 16 and 18) is provided by SUS and is included in the National Vaccination Programme. The three HPV vaccines protect against types 16 and 18, which cause about 70% of cervical cancers.
Cervical cancer, in its early stages, is often asymptomatic. Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during sexual intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge.
“The main risk factors described for cervical cancer, in addition to HPV, include smoking and a history of sexually transmitted infections. Larger number of partners, sexual intercourse before age 18, immunosuppression, family history of cervical cancer , multiparity, among others,” classifies the doctor.
According to the expert, the three vaccines protect against the two types of HPV responsible for colon cancer. However, ninevalent and quadrivalent protect against types 6 and 11 which cause more than 90% of genital warts.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
