What Women Need To Know About HPV And Cervical Cancer
Human Papillomavirus is commonly known as HPV. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection can occur in both male and female genital areas even if covered by a latex condom or not covered. For decade HPV has been know has the primary cause of Cervical Cancer and of associated pre-cancerous change of the cervix. According to the American Society, in this year alone, more than 11,000 women will be diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer, and about 3,500 will die from this disease. Approximately 20 million people are currently infected with HPV. By the time a woman reach age 50, at least 80 percent will have contracted some form of genital HPV.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention stated that genital HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. if you have intercourse; you are likely to be exposed to at least one of the types of HPV. Each year, more than 6 million Americans are infected with HPV, and the infection is unlike the more commonly discussed sexual infections like Gonorrhea and Chlamydia.
Most people who contrast HPV are unaware because it rarely shows symptoms.
As Gynecologist tries to inform woman about HPV we find out fear, anxiety and lack of knowledge prevent far too much woman, particularly woman of color, from getting recommended preventive care and gaining awareness of their bodies.
In June of last year, there was new focus on the condition when the FDA approved the first licensed vaccine against HPV infection. Targeted for females who are 9 to 26 year old. Gardasil is an important advancement in the fight against cervical cancer. The Vaccine, which consists of a series of three muscle injections, offers protection against four strains of HVP that cause the majority of disease in women. The HPV vaccine is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity. Studies support and indicate that the HPV vaccine is safe and highly effective in the...