High-Risk vs. Low-Risk HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause various health problems. There are many different types of HPV, and some of them are more dangerous than others. In this article, we will explore the various types of HPV and the risks associated with each one.
Low-risk HPV types
Low-risk HPV types are those that are less likely to cause health problems. These types of HPV can cause genital warts but are not associated with cancer. There are several low-risk HPV types, including types 6 and 11.
Type 6 HPV
Type 6 HPV is one of the most common types of HPV, responsible for about 90% of all cases of genital warts. This type of HPV can also cause respiratory papillomatosis, a rare condition that drives growth in the throat. Although respiratory papillomatosis is rare, it can be life-threatening if it blocks the airway.
Type 11 HPV
Type 11 HPV is another low-risk type of HPV, and it is responsible for about 10% of all cases of genital warts. This type of HPV is also associated with respiratory papillomatosis. Although type 11 HPV is less common than type 6 HPV, it can still cause health problems.
High-risk HPV types
High-risk HPV types are those that are more likely to cause health problems. These types of HPV can cause cervical, anal, and oral cancer. There are several high-risk HPV types, including types 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, and 68.
Type 16 HPV
Type 16 HPV is one of the most dangerous types of HPV, and it is responsible for about 50% of all cases of cervical cancer. This type of HPV can also cause other types of cancer, including anal, penile, and oropharyngeal. Oropharyngeal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and the tonsils.
Type 18 HPV
Type 18 HPV is another high-risk type of HPV, and it is responsible for about 20% of all cases of cervical cancer. This type of HPV is also associated with other types of cancer, including anal, penile, and oropharyngeal. Type 18 HPV is less common than type 16 HPV, but it is still dangerous.
Other high-risk HPV types
Many other high-risk HPV types can cause health problems. These types of HPV are less common than types 16 and 18, but they are still dangerous. Some of these types of HPV are associated with specific types of cancer. For example, type 31 HPV is related to anal cancer, and type 45 HPV is associated with cervical cancer.
HPV transmission
HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The virus can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, so condoms may not protect completely. HPV can also be spread through other types of skin-to-skin contacts, such as rubbing genitals together without penetration. The virus can be spread even if the infected person has no symptoms.
Preventing HPV
Preventing HPV is important because the virus can cause serious health problems. There are several ways to reduce the risk of HPV infection, including:
- Using condoms during sexual activity
- Getting vaccinated against HPV
- Getting regular Pap tests or other screening tests
Using condoms during sexual activity can reduce the risk of HPV infection, but it is not 100% effective. The virus can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, so it is essential also to consider vaccination as a form of prevention. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both males and females, and it is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity. The vaccine is available in two forms: a bivalent vaccine that protects against types 16 and 18 and a quadrivalent vaccine that also protects against types 6 and 11.
Pap tests or other screening tests can also help prevent HPV-related health problems. These tests can detect abnormal cells in the cervix, a sign of cervical cancer or precancerous changes. Women should get regular Pap tests at age 21 or earlier if they are sexually active. The frequency of Pap tests may vary depending on age and other factors, so it is important to talk to a healthcare provider about when to start screening and how often to get tested.
There has been some research on the potential use of AHCC supplements as a way to prevent HPV infection or to boost the immune system in those who have already been infected.
AHCC, or active hexose correlated compound, is derived from mushrooms and is believed to have immune-boosting properties. Some studies have suggested that taking AHCC supplements may help to prevent HPV infection or to reduce the risk of developing cervical dysplasia (abnormal cells in the cervix) in women who are already infected with HPV.
It is important to note that not all HPV infections will lead to health problems, and most HPV infections will go away on their own without causing any symptoms or health problems. However, it is still important to take steps to prevent HPV infection and to get regular screenings to detect any abnormal cells that may develop.
In conclusion, there are many different types of HPV, and some of them are more dangerous than others. Low-risk HPV types can cause genital warts, while high-risk HPV types can cause cancer. Prevention is critical regarding HPV, including using condoms, getting vaccinated, and getting regular screenings. Treatment is available for the health problems caused by HPV, but it is important to take steps to prevent infection in the first place. If you have questions or concerns about HPV, contact a healthcare provider for more information.