If you’ve ever wondered what cancer does HPV cause, you’re not alone. In fact, nearly half of all men in the United States have some form of the virus, and this number is rising. HPV causes a number of cancers, but throat cancer is the most common. In addition, HPV has been linked to penile and anal cancers. While the exact cause of cancer has not been determined, HPV is a leading cause of cancer among males.
HPV can also cause vaginal pre-cancers, which may be spotted years before they turn into cancer. Pap tests can detect these pre-cancers, and treatment may prevent the cancer from progressing. Penis cancer is caused by HPV in men and is more likely to develop in men who have sex with other men and are HIV positive. But there are ways to prevent penile cancer from occurring.
Treatment options for HPV-positive cancer vary. It can include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. The treatment chosen depends on the size of the tumor, its location, the stage of the disease, and the overall health of the patient. Research continues to identify the best treatment for HPV-positive cancer. However, there are many different types of HPV, and not all of them are linked to cancer. In general, HPV is a virus that can cause head and neck cancer.
High-risk HPV can cause cancer, but most people will not experience any major symptoms. The majority of HPV-positive people are not diagnosed with cancer, although they can develop genital warts. But, for those with a higher risk, HPV infection is associated with a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. Pap tests to detect cervical cancer early and may be helpful in detecting it in its early stages.
Some forms of HPV can cause warts. These warts are often found on the skin, anus, cervix, vagina, or penis. The risk of cancer is high, and people with high-risk HPV can develop various cancers, including cervical and head and neck cancer. However, some HPV strains do not cause cancer and are asymptomatic. These people may have a long-term infection.
HPV infection usually resolves without treatment. Women who have HPV should have Pap tests every few years to detect any abnormalities in their cervix. However, men should monitor for the signs of HPV-related cancers. And, of course, regular HPV screening is also recommended for women. But, if there is any doubt at all, it is worth consulting a doctor about cervical screening.
HPV infections can also affect the mouth, throat, and penis. Infection can lead to cervical cancer, and some HPV strains cause oropharyngeal cancer as well. Cervical cancer is often detectable through routine Pap tests, but oropharyngeal cancers cannot. Moreover, HPV-related anal cancer accounts for about 12% of HPV-linked cancers in women. Finally, HPV can cause other cancers in the vagina, including genital cancer.
