Human papillomavirus
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 types of viruses, of which 12 are classified as ‘high-risk’ as they can cause cancer, such as cervical cancer in women, anal and genital cancers, and some cancers of the head and neck, in both men and women. The 'low risk' HPV types can cause genital and anal warts. While most HPV infections clear without causing any symptoms, persistent infection with certain HPV types may lead to precancerous lesions and cancer. Cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent type of cancer among women aged 15-44 in the European Union/EEA.
In 2022, around 30 000 cases of cervical cancer and nearly 15 000 deaths were reported in the EU/EEA.
See also Global Cancer Observatory.
Anyone sexually active is at risk of contracting HPV, as condom use is not 100% effective.
HPV is an infection that is mainly transmitted through intimate, skin-to-skin contact with a person with HPV. The main transmission routes are through vaginal, penile, anal, or oral sex. It is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide.
Three vaccines available in Europe can protect against the virus. These vaccines protect against the types of HPV that cause most cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal and oropharyngeal cancers.
There is no medication for the infection caused by the virus itself, but the health problems caused by HPV can be treated in different ways. In women, ‘precancerous’ lesions can be identified early through cervical cancer screening and treated. This is offered to women in accordance with national recommendations. Other HPV-related cancers are also more treatable when diagnosed and treated early, but there are no specific screening programmes for these.
Genital warts can be treated using medication or by surgery. A healthcare provider should be consulted for advice on specific treatment options.
Vaccinating children before they are likely to be exposed to HPV is the best way to prevent the diseases that can be caused by HPV infection. Also, studies suggest that younger individuals develop a stronger immune response to the vaccine than older age groups, thereby enhancing its effectiveness. Routine HPV vaccination of girls and boys usually takes place between the ages of 9 and 14, according to each country's national vaccination schedule.
