01/04/2026
January Is Cervical Health Awareness Month
Key Facts About HPV
* Prevalence: It's very common, with up to 80% of unvaccinated adults getting infected in their lifetime.
* Transmission: Spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, often sexually, even without in*******se or symptoms.
* Types: Over 200 types exist; some cause warts, others cause cancers.
* Symptoms: Most infections have no symptoms; some cause ge***al warts (cauliflower-like bumps) or mouth/throat bumps.
* Cancer Risk: Can cause cervical, a**l, pe**le, vaginal, vulval, and oropharyngeal (mouth/throat) cancers.
* Immune System: The body usually clears the virus within 1-2 years.
While there is no cure, there is treatment for symptoms. There is also a vaccine available for individuals 12 to 50 years of age. Screening on a regular basis based on symptoms and/or history along with using protection can help avoid spread of HPV.