HPV and related cancers: What you need to know
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of certain types of cervical cancer and other cancers in men and women
August 15, 2024
What is human papillomavirus (HPV)?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U.S. There are many different types of HPV.
For most people, HPV clears on its own. But for the very few who do not clear the virus, it can cause certain cancers and other diseases in both men and women. Unfortunately, there’s no way to know who will or will not clear the virus.
What cancers and diseases can be caused by HPV?
HPV can cause certain types of:
- cervical cancers
- anal cancers
- vulvar cancers
- vaginal cancers
- head and neck cancers
- genital warts
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between 2016 and 2020, tens of thousands of people in the U.S. were diagnosed with certain HPV-related cancers each year.
The impact of HPV-related cancers
Between 2016 and 2020, CDC estimates:
of all oropharyngeal cancer (found in the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils) may be caused by HPV
new HPV-related cervical cancer cases occur in the U.S. each year
“There are steps people can take to be proactive about their health. Men and women should speak with their health care providers to learn more about the link between HPV and certain cancers and diseases.”
— Mel Kohn, M.D., M.P.H., executive director of medical affairs, Merck
The World Health Organization’s movement towards cervical cancer elimination
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer in women globally. Important steps have been taken to achieve a world where fewer women are affected by cervical cancer, but more needs to be done.
In 2020, the World Health Assembly adopted the global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem.
To help achieve this goal, the WHO provides guidance and tools to support countries in implementing strategies and addressing challenges associated with cervical cancer prevention.
