There are several sexually transmitted infections and diseases that research and studies has shown to pose potential risk to the human race. While some have been discovered to be ravaging the human population, others pose lesser risk if diagnosed early and immediately tackled. Human Papillomavirus commonly known as HPV falls within the latter category.
According to the World Health Organisation [WHO] medical and research team, it is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract. HPV infections are common and one of the most common types of cancer it causes is cervical cancer. Research has also shown that More than 40 HPV types can be easily spread through direct sexual contact.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is the cancer of the cervix and it arises due to the abnormal growth of cells that spread to other parts of the body.
According to the World Health Organisation [WHO] research and findings, cervical cancer is a frequent type of cancer in women with an estimated 570 000 new cases in 2018.
Here are some facts about HPV & Cervical Cancer according to WHO that you need to know:
- HPV is common worldwide
- Acquiring infection with certain types of HPV causes cervical cancer
- There are 14 different types of HPV which causes cancer
- Research shows that HPV vaccines are safe and can help prevent HPV infections
- HPV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact
- Cervical Cancer is curable if diagnosed early
- Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in women living in the less developed areas
- Two types of HPV (16 and 18) cause 70% of cervical cancer and pre-cancerous cervical lesions.
- One of the cost-effective ways of preventing cervical cancer in women aged 30 and more is through screening and treatment of pre-cancer lesions
- WHO also recommends Vaccines that protect against HPV 16 and 18 and they have been approved for use in many countries.
Regular screening and smear tests detect the HPV virus. Let’s do our part to prevent further spread of this.
