Many have heard of HPV, or human papillomavirus, and its connection to cervical cancer, but somehow, there are still plenty of misconceptions about this common virus.
Having the right information is one of the best defenses against any illnesses. Pharmaceutical company Merck, Sharp & Dohme Philippines debunks myths about HPV.
MYTH: HPV is rare.
FACT: According to an article published on University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s website, the virus is so common that about 80 percent of men and women will contract it during their lifetime. What makes it even more alarming is that most of the people who have HPV don’t even know they have it or have had it.
MYTH: It only affects females.
FACT: HPV affects both men and women. It can also cause a variety of cancers. Based on studies, 20-24 year-old women are most likely to become infected; while men are most likely to become infected in the ages between 25 and 29.
MYTH: You can tell if you have HPV.
FACT: Although there are instances when HPV infections produce warts or cauliflower-like lesions in various parts of the body like the mouth, throat, or reproductive organs, there are instances when infected areas do not show symptoms. The best way to test if someone has HPV is by conducting a Pap smear, an HPV DNA test, or visual inspection of the affected area with acetic acid. These tests verify the presence of the HPV virus and the growth of abnormal cells, according to Mayo Clinic.
MYTH: All HPV infections can clear up on their own.
FACT: Only about 80 percent of HPV types can be cleared out by the body. HPV infection that persists may eventually cause cancers or HPV-related diseases.
MYTH: You can’t easily contract HPV.
FACT: HPV is very easy to transmit and contract. Intimate skin-to-skin contact is the simplest way to acquire HPV. Research has also confirmed the virus can be transmitted through fomites or objects that have been exposed to the virus, such as (but not limited to) infected surgical gloves, undergarments, and biopsy forceps.
MYTH: There’s only one type of HPV.
FACT: Contrary to popular belief, there are actually more than 100 strains of HPV. HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, and 66 are known to cause certain cancers.
MYTH: The existing vaccines only work on women and young girls.
FACT: There are available HPV vaccines that are indicated for both men and women. Young girls and boys may also get the vaccines. In fact, since HPV is so easy to transmit, it’s important that both men and women (or ideally, young boys and girls) receive HPV vaccines to guard their health from the harmful effects of HPV.
MYTH: You can delay getting vaccinated until you’re older.
FACT: Vaccination can start as early as nine years old. The vaccines work better in guarding against HPV and HPV-related cancers and diseases if they are given before exposure to HPV, said in an article on Reader’s Digest website.