The Facts of HPV
I've decided I'm far too depressing to write about anything pertaining to me life. So read on to learn about one of the most common STIs around!
HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), has become one of the most common STDs today. Because some strains of HPV are transmitted not only through sexual contact but also through skin-to-skin contact, it is estimated that by age 50, up to 80% of women have contracted HPV at some point in their lives.
HPV, which often shows up as an abnormality in pap smears, is usually symptomless and harmless-most cases disappear on their own over time and are not a cause for serious concern. However, some strains of HPV cause cervical dysplasia, a condition that in extreme cases can cause cervical cancer. Of the 200+ different strains of HPV, two are linked with 75% of all cervical cancers. Using latex condoms can reduce the risk of HPV-associated diseases, and regular pap smears can help catch more serious cases early on. Also, a vaccine that prevents the cancer causing strains of HPV has recently been created-great news, as such a vaccine could potentially wipe out cervical cancer in a generation.
For more medical facts and information about HPV, please visit www.nfprha.org/facts/STDs/
HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), has become one of the most common STDs today. Because some strains of HPV are transmitted not only through sexual contact but also through skin-to-skin contact, it is estimated that by age 50, up to 80% of women have contracted HPV at some point in their lives.
HPV, which often shows up as an abnormality in pap smears, is usually symptomless and harmless-most cases disappear on their own over time and are not a cause for serious concern. However, some strains of HPV cause cervical dysplasia, a condition that in extreme cases can cause cervical cancer. Of the 200+ different strains of HPV, two are linked with 75% of all cervical cancers. Using latex condoms can reduce the risk of HPV-associated diseases, and regular pap smears can help catch more serious cases early on. Also, a vaccine that prevents the cancer causing strains of HPV has recently been created-great news, as such a vaccine could potentially wipe out cervical cancer in a generation.
For more medical facts and information about HPV, please visit www.nfprha.org/facts/STDs/