Infectious Diseases

Disease Analysis: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines

HPV is a member of the papillomavirus family, which are known for causing warts. Over 200 different types have been identified so far, and while most HPV infections are not harmful, persistent infection with certain HPV strains can cause warts and anogenital lesions, which if untreated may become cancers. HPV infection is the major cause of cervical cancers, with almost all cases (99%) being caused by HPV infection. Other cancers related to HPV include cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus. Only about 14 HPV strains are considered high risk for causing cervical cancer, and of these the two most common types, HPV 16 and 18, are responsible for causing around 70% of all cervical cancers globally.