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Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses, some of which can cause cancer. HPV is a very common virus that spreads through skin-to-skin contact.

Historical Background

HPV was first identified as a cause of warts in the early 20th century. Its link to cervical cancer was established later, leading to the development of HPV vaccines.

Key Points

9 points
  • 1.

    HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI).

  • 2.

    Certain types of HPV can cause cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

  • 3.

    HPV vaccines protect against the types of HPV that cause most of these cancers.

  • 4.

    Regular screening, such as Pap tests, can detect cervical abnormalities caused by HPV.

  • 5.

    HPV is highly prevalent, with most sexually active people contracting it at some point in their lives.

  • 6.

    HPV infection is often asymptomatic, meaning people may not know they have it.

  • 7.

    HPV vaccines are most effective when administered before the start of sexual activity.

  • 8.

    The National Cancer Control Programme aims to reduce the incidence of HPV-related cancers.

  • 9.

    HPV testing is becoming increasingly common as a screening tool.

Visual Insights

Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Key Aspects

Mind map outlining key aspects of HPV, including its types, transmission, link to cervical cancer, and prevention strategies.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

  • Types of HPV
  • Transmission
  • Link to Cervical Cancer
  • Prevention

Recent Developments

5 developments

Increased availability and affordability of HPV vaccines.

Expansion of HPV vaccination programs in many countries.

Research into new HPV vaccines with broader protection.

Efforts to raise awareness about HPV and its link to cancer.

Development of more sensitive HPV testing methods.

Source Topic

HPV Vaccine: Herd Protection Against Cervical Cancer Demonstrated in Study

Science & Technology

UPSC Relevance

Relevant for UPSC GS Paper 2 (Health) and GS Paper 3 (Science and Technology). Questions can be asked about HPV, its link to cancer, and HPV vaccines.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Key Aspects

Mind map outlining key aspects of HPV, including its types, transmission, link to cervical cancer, and prevention strategies.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Cancer-causing vs. Non-cancer-causing

Common STI

Causative Agent

HPV Vaccine and Pap Tests

Connections
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)Types Of HPV
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)Transmission
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)Link To Cervical Cancer
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)Prevention