HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a very common virus that infects the skin and protects us from various diseases. However, if left untreated, this virus might lead to the development of warts and, in some cases, cervical cancer. Knowing about HPV helps protect yourself from contracting this disease.
What is HPV Warts?
HPV is a virus infecting the skin and genital areas of humans. It is estimated that there are over 100 types of HPV that can infect humans. One of the consequences of an HPV infection is cauliflower-like growth on the skin called warts.
There are two types of warts that people usually get. These are common warts and genital warts. Both of them are caused by the HPV or human papillomavirus. Genital warts are so named because they are mostly found on the genitals. The common type of warts is seen all over the body, especially near the mouth, hands, and feet. The genital type of warts is visible as small, fleshy bumps on the genitals. These are most commonly caused by the HPVs 6, 11, 16, and 18.
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How HPV Infects People and Causes Disease
When someone gets the HPV virus, it does not cause any health problems. It is only when someone has the virus in their body for a certain amount of time that it starts to cause warts or other complications. The HPV virus can be passed on from someone infected through sexual intercourse. A vast majority infected with the HPV virus will be asymptomatic and won’t even know they are infected.
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Types of HPV and Risk Factors for Developing Disease
Various types of HPV can infect humans. Some are more likely to cause warts or cancer than others. – HPV 6 and 11: These are the most common subtypes associated with HPV warts and are responsible for approximately 90% of all genital warts. Like all HPV infections, these types are often transmitted through sexual intercourse.
HPV 16 and 18: These are less prevalent than the other subtypes and are responsible mainly for cervical cancer.
Prevention Tips For HPV Warts
The best way to prevent getting HPV is to practice safe sex. This means you must use a condom during sexual intercourse to protect yourself from getting an STD, including the HPV virus. Other ways to protect yourself from contracting HPV include limiting your number of sexual partners. It is also worth noting that warts are not a life-long condition.
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Conclusion
HPV, also known as human papillomavirus, is a very common virus, and its prolonged presence in the body might cause several problems, including genital warts and cervical cancer. The most common types of HPV that cause warts are HPV 6 and HPV 11. And the most common types causing cervical cancer are HPV 16 and HPV 18. The best way to prevent HPV warts is to have safer sex, including using a condom during sexual intercourse and limiting your number of sexual partners. However, it is also advisable to get the vaccination before involving in any kind of sexual activity to avoid future health issues.
