Human papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted disease that, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 20 million Americans are infected with, and more than 6 million new people become infected with each year. Human papillomavirus is so common, in fact, that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states almost half of all people who are sexually active will contract one of 40 different types of human papillomavirus at some point. Human papillomavirus is usually fought off by the body’s immune system before it is able to cause problems. Sometimes, however, the virus can cause serious health problems, like cancer.
Genital Warts
Most cases of genital warts are caused by HPV infections types 6 and 11. These warts will show up in the genital area and are small, flat bumps. These resemble cauliflower and are not associated with cancer. In women, these warts appear most commonly on the vulva, but they may also occur near the anus, on the cervix or in the vagina. In men, these may appear on the penis and scrotum or around the anus. Genital warts rarely cause discomfort or pain.
Pre-Cancerous Cells
This sign occurs in women and is detectable through a Pap smear. When the cells are scraped off the cervix, they are tested in a lab. If HPV is present, the test will show up as either low-grade or high-grade abnormalities. Low-grade abnormalities are not serious and usually resolve on their own, while high-grade abnormalities are more serious and can lead to cancer. The most common types of HPV that lead to cervical cancer in women are type 11 and type 6.
Mouth and Throat Sores
Some people contract a type of HPV that causes sores or warts to develop in the mouth, throat and nose. The type of HPV that causes these sores varies from low-risk HPV types to extremely high-risk HPV types. Only a doctor can determine which type is causing the symptoms. Antibiotics can be used to treat any infected lesions that occur in these areas.
Cervical Cancer and Other Cancers
Cervical cancer is the third most-common type of cancer in women worldwide, according to the "New York Times" website's Health Guide. More than 70 percent of all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV types 16 and 18. The other cancers that can be caused by HPV are genital cancer, anal cancer, oral cancer and upper respiratory cancer. The cancer occurs because the virus is allowed to progress. There will be no specific symptoms of cervical cancer until it has progressed.
