What is HPV and How Does It Relate to Cancer?
 HPV is a virus that, when people hear about it, they often think of sexually transmitted diseases. However, this type of virus, in reality, is also a major cause of cervical cancer. Additionally, it has connections to many other types of cancer. This article will help you understand the HPV virus, clarifying what it is, the types of cancer it's associated with, and how to manage it. Take proactive steps today to learn more about prevention, get regular screenings, and discuss the HPV vaccine with your healthcare provider to protect your health.

Understanding HPV : From Virus to Cancer Cause

HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is a virus with over 100 strains found in both males and females. Some strains cause non-dangerous diseases such as warts on the skin or genital organs, but some strains of HPV can be called "high-risk strains" that lead to serious health problems because they can cause normal cells to change and grow abnormally until they become cancer cells. Particularly strains 16 and 18, which are the leading causes of many types of cancer.

HPV Virus Spreads Rapidly, Even Though Simple Contact
HPV spreads easily by skin contact, mostly during any kind of sex. You can pass on HPV even if you have no symptoms or warts, so many people have it without knowing. Babies can also get HPV from their mothers during birth, but this does not happen often.

Why Do Most People Associate HPV Only with Cervical Cancer?
Most people think of cervical cancer when they hear about HPV because experts found early that almost all cervical cancer cases are caused by this virus. Besides, the cervical cancer screening program[2]  is also well-known for women's health checks. So, many people believe HPV just means cervical cancer.

In reality, this virus affects not only women but also can increase the risk of cancer in other locations. Cancers that are linked to HPV include :

Vaginal and Vulvar Cancer
Over 70% of vaginal and vulvar cancer patients have chronic HPV infection because it can cause abnormalities in the mucosal cells of the vaginal and vulvar areas, which can also develop into cancer. There are also other risk factors, including smoking, a weakened immune system, or unsafe sexual behaviors without protection.

Oropharyngeal Cancer
Oropharyngeal cancer is most commonly diagnosed in male patients, but female patients also have a risk. The primary cause of this type of cancer is the HPV virus strain 16. When an individual engages in oral sex, this virus strain can enter the body through the mucosal lining located at the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils. Once there, the virus can induce changes in the cells, leading them to evolve into Oropharyngeal cancer.

Anal Cancer
Anal cancer is another type of cancer caused by the HPV virus. The disease mechanism is similar to cervical cancer. When the HPV virus enters the mucosal cells in the anal area, it can cause cellular abnormalities and develop into cancer. High-risk groups include those who have previously been infected with this virus in the genital organs, those who have anal intercourse, those with compromised immune systems, and those with multiple sexual partners. HPV is responsible for approximately 90% of anal cancer worldwide, underscoring the importance of awareness and prevention among these high-risk groups. Due to the various risks they face, these individuals have increased chances of contracting HPV and developing Oropharyngeal cancer.

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones from HPV Virus and Serious Diseases with Phyathai 1 Hospital
If you or your loved ones have concerns about HPV infection or related cancers, you can visit Phyathai 1 International Hospital. We have a team of specialist doctors from the Great Life Center  who are ready to provide information and guidance on self-care to prevent risks, as well as offer close patient care and treatment.

Preventing HPV is simpler than you might think. Begin with vaccination against cervical cancer, which is available in both 4-strain  and 9-strain types and is recognized as a highly effective method. You can also assess your risk or undergo preliminary screening through health check-up programs, such as the Thin Prep Test, which provides a highly accurate screening for cervical cancer by conducting an internal examination and sampling cells to detect abnormalities or Cancer Screening Program for females  offers comprehensive screening for various types of cancer, allowing for the early detection of abnormalities, which is when treatment has the highest chance of success.

With comprehensive care, from consultation and screening to vaccination and treatment, Phyathai 1 International Hospital is ready to stand by your side, creating a protective shield against HPV infection and serious diseases, and allowing you to move forward confidently through every stage of life.