HPV, or the human papillomavirus, is a widespread group of viruses. These viruses, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), may become persistent and lead to cervical cancer. This disease is spread by sexual contact, with around 30 types spread only during direct genital contact, according to the NCI.
High Risk
These "genital" types of HPV include high-risk types and low-risk types. The high-risk types can cause different types of cancer, but most frequently, cervical cancer.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix, according to HCI's website. The lower part of the uterus---or the womb---is the cervix. This is where the uterus opens into the vagina. Symptoms can include abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding, low back pain and pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
Other Cancers
According to NCI, some studies have shown that HPV can lead to cancers of the penis, vagina, anus, and vulva. Oral HPV infections may lead to oropharyngeal cancer---according to the NCI---and symptoms of this cancer can include a "sore throat and a lump in the neck."
Symptoms Of Penile and Anal Cancer
Symptoms of penile cancer are usually a flushed, furry rash, painless sores, a bad smelling discharge and penis color changes. Symptoms of anal cancer, according to the NCI, may include rectal bleeding, itching and pain.
Symptoms of Vaginal and Vulva Cancer
Early vagina cancer usually has no symptoms, followed by bleeding and discharge. Vulva cancer, according to the NCI, also has no symptoms in the beginning and the only symptom to usually appear is itching that never goes away.
What Can You Do?
The easiest way to not contract the HPV infection, according to the NCI, is to not have sexual relations with someone who has HPV. Prevention is the best way; however, if you or your partner has HPV, condoms should be used during all sexual contact.
Tags: cancer according, Cancer Symptoms, cancer usually, cervical cancer, high-risk types, sexual contact