Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection affecting millions of people worldwide. While often harmless, certain strains of HPV are known to cause some types of cancer. Understanding the connection between HPV and cancer is important so you can take steps to protect your health.
Of the approximate 100 different types of HPV, infectious disease doctors consider only a few of them to be “high risk," particularly HPV 16 and HPV 18. These two strains are the ones most often connected to the development of cancer.
Who Is At Risk for HPV Infections?
HPV infection is extremely common among nearly all sexually active people regardless of sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Most HPV infections resolve on their own without leading to cancer because your immune system clears the virus from your body within a year or two. Persistent high-risk HPV infections are the ones that lead to cancer.
Understanding How HPV Leads to Various Cancers
HPV causes cancer by inserting itself into the body's DNA, which disrupts normal cellular functions. The virus generates proteins that disrupt the cell's normal regulatory process, resulting in genetic instability. This instability may cause cells to grow uncontrollably, eventually forming tumors. It's important to note that while HPV infection is common, not everyone infected will develop cancer. Factors such as immune response and lifestyle choices also play a role in whether cancer is likely to develop.
Cervical cancer is the most studied HPV-related cancer, with a clear link established between persistent HPV infection and the development of precancerous lesions. Without regular screening and treatment, these lesions can progress to cancer.
Related Reading: HPV and Cervical Cancer: What’s the Connection?
In addition to cervical cancer, HPV is considered a contributing factor to several other types of cancer, such as:
- Oropharyngeal cancers, a type of head and neck cancer particularly those affecting the throat and tonsils.
- Anal cancer
- Penile cancer
- Vulvar cancer
Screening for Cancers Caused by HPV
Screening tests are performed to identify cancer cells when they are either precancerous or when the cancer is small, in its earliest stages, and confined to a single area of the body. Screening is not an option for many types of cancer. However, cervical cancer uses a standard screening test.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Screening for cervical cancer is a Pap test that looks for cell changes that are precancerous or cancerous. For women, Pap tests are often done along with an HPV test. If you are HPV-negative, there is a much lower likelihood that you'll develop cervical cancer.
If any abnormal cells are found in the Pap test results, your gynecologist can remove them before cancer develops. If cancer is found, a gynecologic oncologist creates a cervical cancer treatment plan to remove the cancer and provide any other treatments that may be needed.
Related reading: 5 Things You Can Do to Prevent Cervical Cancer
Other HPV Cancer Screenings
There are currently no standard screening tests for HPV-related cancers in men. However, if you're at a higher risk of developing an HPV infection, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor about HPV testing. Also, if you notice anything different about your genitals, such as a lump or sore that won't heal, schedule an appointment with your doctor. This applies to both men and women as this could be a precancerous condition called dysplasia or abnormal cells. A doctor can treat dysplasia before the cells become cancerous.
Preventing HPV Infections With a Vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against infection from nine HPV types, including the seven strains of the virus known to cause the most HPV-related cancers. The vaccine is recommended for preteens, ideally administered before the onset of sexual activity, to ensure maximum effectiveness. However, vaccination is also beneficial for older individuals up to age 26 who have not yet been exposed to HPV. It’s proven safe and greatly reduces the risk of developing HPV-related cancers.
What Else Can You Do to Lower Your Risk of HPV Infections?
HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, not from blood or body fluids. Because of this, practicing safe sex is the best way to reduce the risk of contracting HPV. Using condoms every time you have sex lowers the likelihood of the virus spreading. However, it doesn't provide complete protection because you can be exposed to it from other areas of the body.
Limiting the number of sexual partners you have can further decrease the risk of HPV infection. However, remember, it's possible to have an HPV infection even if you haven't been sexually active for years.
Empowering Yourself with Knowledge and Action
For women, cervical cancer screening saves lives. Be sure to schedule your screening test annually or as your doctor recommends. If you have insurance, this preventive care test is usually entirely covered by your plan. For men and other types of cancer, be sure you remain aware of what's normal for you and schedule annual physicals for a physician to review your health. If you notice anything unusual between annual physicals, schedule another appointment to have it looked at. Remember, it's always easier to treat conditions earlier rather than later.
Originally published November 2020. Updated March 2025.
