Get the Facts: Cervical Cancer & HPV

Focused on Health - January 2009

By Adelina Espat

Most cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which triggers abnormal changes in the cervix. High-risk strains of HPV, a sexually transmitted virus, are present in more than 99% of cervical cancer cases. According to the American Cancer Society, up to 80% of women who have ever had sex will be infected with HPV at some time in their lives.

Most HPV infections disappear without treatment within a couple of years. Persistent HPV infection can lead to precancerous cervical changes and to cervical cancer.

HPV Vaccine Helps Prevent Cervical Cancer

The HPV vaccine is the first vaccine developed to prevent cervical cancer, precancerous genital lesions and genital warts. The vaccine targets four types of HPV: types 6, 11, 16 and 18. HPV types 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancers. The Food and Drug Administration has approved the HPV vaccine for girls and women between the ages of nine and 26.

M. D. Anderson recommends that girls receive the vaccine when they are ages 11 to 12. Parents may choose to vaccinate girls as young as age 9. Girls and women ages 13 to 26 may be vaccinated to catch up on a missed vaccine or to complete the vaccination series.

Women who receive the vaccine still need to follow recommended cervical cancer screening guidelines, which includes the Pap test, because the vaccine does not protect against all high-risk types of HPV. The Pap test is the most effective exam for detecting and treating precancerous lesions before they become cancerous.

The current HPV vaccine was not tested in women over age 26; therefore, it is not yet recommended for women over this age.

The most effective way to reduce the risk of HPV infection is to be abstinent or remain in a monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner. Condom use does not eliminate the risk of HPV.

HPV Testing After Age 30

M. D. Anderson recommends HPV testing, in addition to Pap tests, for women over age 30. HPV test samples can be collected at the same time as a Pap test.

HPV testing is not recommended for women younger than age 30 because, at this age, the immune system is more likely to clear the virus without treatment, and regular HPV testing may result in unnecessary interventions and follow-up care. Also, cell changes caused by HPV infections may take many years to become cancerous. However, if Pap test results are unclear, an HPV test should be performed to determine the presence of a strain of the HPV virus that may lead to cervical cancer.

Speak with your doctor about cervical cancer screening, HPV and the vaccine. Your doctor can help you make an informed decision that’s right for you.