Regardless of gender, the probability of being infected with the HPV virus during a lifetime is as high as 80%.
What is human papillomavirus (HPV)?
It is a type of DNA mutant virus with over a hundred variants, among which two types (16, 18) have a very high chance of developing into cervical cancer!
In Taiwan, HPV vaccines are currently available in bivalent and nine-valent forms. The nine-valent vaccine covers nine types of HPV viruses. Receiving the vaccine not only prevents cervical cancer but also genital warts (condyloma).
Cancers related to the genital area, such as vaginal cancer and vulvar cancer in women, penile cancer in men, and even oropharyngeal cancer and anal cancer, have been found to be strongly associated with HPV infection!
The HPV vaccine is an antibody vaccine. The earlier it is administered, especially before the first sexual experience, the better the immunity against HPV!
How is HPV transmitted?
Mainly through sexual contact. During sexual activity, the virus can be transmitted through contact with skin, mucous membranes, or body fluids. Sometimes, contact with objects carrying the HPV virus on external genitalia may also cause infection—especially in saunas or when using public towels. If one accidentally comes into contact with the virus, infection may occur. The virus is practically everywhere!
Why is the HPV vaccine also called the cervical cancer vaccine?
HPV types 16 and 18 are the most common high-risk types and are associated with precancerous cervical lesions, cervical cancer, and external genital cancers in both men and women.
HPV infection can occur regardless of gender！ Having multiple sexual partners is considered a high-risk factor for HPV. Getting vaccinated not only reduces your own risk of genital cancers but also protects your partner!
What is the appropriate age to receive the HPV vaccine?
Administering the HPV vaccine before the onset of sexual activity results in a more complete antibody response, but it is recommended to get vaccinated at any age for protective benefits!
What are the symptoms after contracting HPV?
HPV infections generally have no obvious symptoms. Around 90% of infections are cleared by the immune system within a year.
If warts or other genital lesions appear, prompt medical attention is advised.
An HPV infection that lasts more than a year is called a persistent infection, and women with persistent HPV are at higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
Additionally, HPV infection can cause penile cancer in men, and anal, tonsil, pharyngeal, or tongue cancers in both sexes.
Ｑ： Who should not receive the nine-valent HPV vaccine?
：Those who have had allergic reactions after previous doses, pregnant women, those planning to conceive, or individuals with special medical histories may not be suitable. If you have a fever, cold, or are taking medication on the day of vaccination, inform your doctor for evaluation.
Ｑ： After receiving the HPV vaccine, is regular Pap smear screening still necessary?
：Yes!! Since the vaccines do not cover all virus types, it is essential to practice safe sex and #undergo regular cervical smear screenings for comprehensive protection.
If you have previously contracted HPV types 16 or 18, it is crucial to get vaccinated and undergo Pap smear screenings more frequently.
HPV infection does not only affect women; it is actually more common in men.
Even with a single sexual partner, the infection rate can reach 60%. With 3 to 6 lifetime sexual partners, the risk of contracting HPV increases to 90%!
If a man contracts HPV, the chance of naturally producing antibodies is less than 10%, and the risk of reinfection is very high. Therefore, it is even more important for men to get the HPV vaccine.
Because the virus can survive on items used by infected individuals, not only partners but even cohabiting family members are at high risk of exposure. Vaccination protects both yourself and your family’s health. As long as you’re vaccinated, you have protection!
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