2023-11-19 17:23:04
How are HP viruses transmitted?
HPV is the abbreviation for human papilloma virus. They are primarily transmitted through close contact, such as during sex or kissing. That’s why HPV infections are classified as sexually transmitted diseases. The viruses can be transmitted on the skin, mucous membranes or on infected objects, such as sex toys. But transmission at birth, from mother to child, is also possible.
Almost all sexually active people become infected with HPV at some point in their lives. In 90 percent of cases, the infection clears up unnoticed within two years. If it doesn’t heal, it can promote the development of cancer.
Which HPV types are dangerous?
There are about 200 types of HP viruses, which are divided into several types. There are low-risk types that cause, for example, the largely harmless genital warts. But there are also high-risk types that change cells and this can lead to cancer. And only decades after the infection. At least 14 types of HPV cause cancer.
Young people under 25 are particularly at risk; they become infected most often. Age plays a role, especially for girls, because in young girls the skin of the vagina is still quite thin and can be injured more easily, allowing viruses to penetrate.
Symptoms of an HPV infection Infections with HPV usually do not cause any symptoms, which is why many infections go unnoticed. They usually heal on their own.
You can have your doctor tested to see if you have been infected with HPV. For women, statutory health insurance companies cover this test every three years as part of the cancer early detection program.
What do HP viruses have to do with throat cancer?
HP viruses are transmitted through close contact. This also includes oral sex. Studies suggest that an increasing number of head and neck tumors, especially in the mouth and throat, are due to HPV infection. Important: The viruses do not cause cancer, but are an important factor in its development. An undetected infection with HPV can trigger pre-cancerous lesions, which – also undetected – can develop into cancer.
Die German Cancer Society confirms that the frequency of throat cancer is increasing and that this increase could be related to an increase in HPV infections, particularly in younger sufferers.
In women, HPV mainly causes cervical cancer, and in men it mainly causes cancer of the mouth and throat. However, the greatest risk for this cancer is still smoking and regular heavy drinking.
How can you protect yourself?
There is no complete protection against an HPV infection because even the smallest flakes of skin containing viruses can be enough to cause an infection. However, you can reduce the risk, for example by using condoms during sex. Genital warts, a possible consequence of an undetected HPV infection, should also not be touched.
Vaccination can also protect against certain types of viruses. There are various vaccines that can prevent the majority of cervical cancers and, in some cases, the development of genital warts.
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