What is HPV?1,2
HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus, which is a group of widely common viruses that usually cause infections of the reproductive tract.5
It is also common that most adults will get infected by HPV at some point in their lives, with some getting infected more than once. Most HPV cases will clear up on their own within a few months, and about 90% will resolve within 2 years.5,6
Adults of reproductive age are at the highest risk of getting HPV infections. While many types of HPV are harmless, there are many high risk types that can cause certain cancers in women, such as those that may persist and progress into cervical cancer.5,6
HPV by the numbers
Did you know?
Almost ALL cervical cancer cases (99%) are linked to infection, with high-risk Human Papillomaviruses (or HPV).
HPV is so common that about 80% of all sexually active men and women get the virus at some point in their life.
First most frequent cancer amongst women between 15 and 44 years of age. Every year, 10 702 South African women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and about 5 870 women die from the disease.
~1 in 22 cancers worldwide were caused by HPV.9
Each day in the United States,
Globally; new cancer cases related with HPV
620.000 in women 70.000 in men1
the fourth leading cause of cancer and cancer deaths in women: Cervical cancer1
90% of HPV-related cancers in women is Cervical cancer1
HPV-related cancers
HPV can cause several kinds of cancer and is the leading cause of cervical cancer.9,12,a,b
How an HPV infection can lead to cervical cancers1,2
Most HPV infections clear up on their own, and most precancerous lesions resolve spontaneously. However, women are still at risk of HPV infections becoming chronic and progressing to invasive cervical cancer.1,2
It takes 15 to 20 years for cervical cancer to develop in women with normal immune systems, whereas it can take only 5-10 years to develop in women with weakened immune systems, such as those with untreated human immunodeficiency virus or HIV infections.1,2
a – Estimates based on incidence data and US Census World population figures.
b – Not all cervical precancers and lesions, and vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancer cases are caused by HPV
Signs and symptoms
HPV often has no symptoms, but it can cause serious health problems, even without symptoms6
Here is how men and women might find out they are infected.
How it spreads 6,18-19
HPV can be passed on to others even when an infected person has no signs and symptoms.6,18-19
You can get HPV by having any type of intimate relation with someone who has the virus.6,18
Anyone who is sexually active (even if with partner only) can get HPV.
HPV can spread by direct contact with infected skin, mucous membranes or bodily fluids.6,18-19