HPV vaccine may prevent legions that cause cervical cancer up to 50 percent, researchers say. The human papillomavirus virus, HPV for short, is a collection of over 150 related viruses that cause genital warts as well as those on the hands, and feet.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Cervical Cancer: Don’t Wait For Symptoms
Infecting nearly 14 million people a year, the common virus has affected nearly 80 million people—about one in four—in the United States alone. Causing ailments such as those listed above, in addition to vaginal, and vulvar cancers in women; penile cancer in men; anal cancer and cancer of the back of the throat (oropharynx), the virus presents itself in 40 forms [types].
Fortunately for those managing the sexually transmitted virus, (also passed by skin to skin contact) a new study, conducted by the University of New Mexico, in Albuquerque, reveals that an HPV vaccine may provide the leverage you need to overcome the illness.
“After eight years of vaccination, the reduction in the incidence of cervical neoplasia [abnormal growth of cells], including pre-cancers, have been reduced approximately 50 percent. This is greater than what was expected — that’s pretty exciting,” said lead researcher, professor of pathology and obstetrics and gynecology, Cosette Wheeler.