Human Papillomavirus (HPV) HPV is common, about 80-90% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime, often having no symptoms.
What is HPV? Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common group of viruses, with over 200 types. About 40 types are spread through sexual contact. These sexually transmitted types can cause genital warts or, in some cases, cancer. Other types (such as those that cause hand warts) are not sexually transmitted. Because HPV can be present without symptoms, vaccination and screening are important tools to protect your health.
Why HPV Matters? HPV is the most common STI in the United States. Most sexually active people will get HPV at some point, but being vaccinated greatly reduces the risk of infection with the types that cause most cancers and genital warts. HPV can cause several cancers, including: Cervical Anal Penile Vaginal and vulvar Oropharyngeal (head and neck)
How HPV Spreads Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus Direct skin-to-skin contact with any infected skin Rarely, from pregnant person to baby during birth HPV spreads easily and can be passed even when a person has no symptoms. This was funded by the Minority HIV/AIDS fund via the Indian Health Service HIV, HCV and STI Branch.
Signs & Symptoms HPV is sneaky. Many people never notice any symptoms, and the virus can remain in the body without causing problems. Even without symptoms, HPV can be transmitted to others and may cause changes in cells over time. Some HPV infections go away naturally, while others persist.
The Good News: Protection Exists HPV vaccines help your body build antibodies that recognize and fight HPV before it can cause harm. The HPV vaccine protects against the sexually transmitted HPV types that cause most cancers and genital warts. It is safe and highly effective, though it does not protect against HPV types that cause common hand or foot warts.
HPV vaccination can prevent up to 90% of cancers caused by HPV.
Other Prevention Tools Use condoms and dental dams every time you have sex. This reduces risk but does not eliminate it. Avoid direct contact with infected skin. This helps prevent non-sexual HPV types, such as those causing hand or foot warts. Regular screening for HPV. Ask your healthcare provider what screening is best for you.
Stay Informed, Stay Protected Talk with your healthcare provider about HPV vaccinations for yourself and your children. Ask about when to start screenings to help catch any changes early and protect your health. For more information, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/index.html For help getting connected to care text “Care Talk” to 55251 or visit online at nativetest.org
Protected then, strong now — thanks to my family and elders.
The protection given to me as a child keeps me safe now, thank you!
Dear younger me: your family’s love and care gave me a healthy, stronger tomorrow.