Understanding the Link Between HPV Virus and Cervical Cancer: What Every Woman Needs to Know
When discussing cervical cancer, a leading cause of death among Thai women, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a crucial factor that many people may overlook. Not only is this virus easily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and sexual intercourse, but certain strains can also transform cervical cells into cancerous ones over time. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women and the fourth most common cancer worldwide. In 2022, approximately 660,000 new cases and 350,000 deaths were reported. Additionally, in Thailand, there are more than 10,000 new cases of cervical cancer and over 5,200 deaths annually.
Despite advancements in prevention and treatment, these figures highlight the need for greater awareness about HPV. Lack of knowledge and access to healthcare services, such as HPV vaccination and screening, puts many women at risk of developing cervical cancer in the future.
What is HPV?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a very common virus worldwide, especially among sexually active adults. There are many different types of HPV, and some can lead to serious health problems, such as cervical cancer, cancers of the throat, anus, and rectum. HPV can also cause genital warts on the hands, fingers, or soles of the feet.
HPV is highly contagious and spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, especially in moist areas like the genitals, vagina, or anus. Even skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity without penetration can spread the virus.
Types of HPV
There are more than 200 types of HPV, which can be divided into two main groups based on the risk of developing cancer in the future.
- Low-risk HPV: These types of HPV generally do not cause cancer but can lead to less serious conditions such as genital warts or warts on other parts of the body. Common low-risk types include HPV 6 and HPV 11, which account for approximately 90% of genital warts.
- High-risk HPV: These types of HPV have the potential to cause cell changes that can develop into cancer. Significant high-risk types include HPV 16 and HPV 18, which account for over 70% of cervical cancers. Other high-risk types include HPV 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 53, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68.
HPV Transmission
HPV is highly contagious, and the most common mode of transmission is through:
- Sexual contact: Penile-vaginal, oral sex, or direct skin-to-skin contact in the genital area. It’s important to note that HPV transmission doesn’t require intercourse; even casual physical contact can spread the virus.
- Direct contact with mucous membranes and skin: Contact with areas containing HPV, such as small sores or open skin.
- Childbirth: Mothers with HPV can transmit the virus to their babies during vaginal birth, although this is less common.
While HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, many infected individuals may not experience any symptoms or abnormalities. This makes prevention and screening crucial for preventing the spread of HPV and the development of related serious diseases.
Who is at risk of contracting HPV?
• People who start having sex at a young age
• Those who have multiple sexual partners or do not use condoms
• Individuals with a weakened immune system, such as those living with HIV
• People who have not received the HPV vaccine
How to Prevent HPV Infection
Preventing HPV infection is crucial in reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer and other serious diseases. Here are effective prevention methods:
Currently, the most effective prevention is the HPV vaccine. There are three types available, varying in the number of virus strains they cover. These vaccines have been shown to be 90-95% effective in preventing high-grade precancerous cervical lesions and cervical cancer. It is recommended to get vaccinated as early as age 9 up to 45 years old, according to research.
In addition to vaccination, cervical cancer screening is recommended starting at age 25 or after becoming sexually active. Screening can help detect precancerous lesions and treat early-stage cancer, increasing survival rates and reducing deaths from advanced cervical cancer.
The Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at Thainakarin Hospital provides both prevention and treatment for cervical cancer.
- HPV vaccination services are available for both quadrivalent (4 strains) and nonavalent (9 strains) types.
- Cervical cancer screening services are offered, including Liquid Cytology testing and HPV testing, which provide increased accuracy in cancer detection.
- Additional examinations such as colposcopy and/or cervical biopsy with a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) are available for cases with abnormal screening results to further investigate the disease.
What if the result indicates cervical cancer?
If your test results show that you have cervical cancer, we will conduct additional tests like CT scans or MRIs to determine how advanced the cancer is. Based on the stage, we will develop a personalized treatment plan.
For early-stage cancer, you may have options like a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or a less invasive surgery that preserves the uterus if you want to have children.
For more advanced cancers (stages 2 to 4), radiation therapy and chemotherapy are the primary treatments. At Thainakarin Hospital, our team of specialists, including cancer surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, will work together to provide you with the most advanced and comprehensive care. Our state-of-the-art radiation equipment and dedicated nursing staff are committed to your well-being.