Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that can lead to health problems like genital warts and certain cancers. There are over 100 strains of HPV, with about 40 strains that can infect the genital areas. HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact. Most sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives, though most never have symptoms and the infection goes away on its own.
While HPV often clears up on its own without causing problems, some strains are high risk and can lead to health issues if left untreated. The two most concerning potential complications of high-risk HPV strains are cervical cancer in women and cancers of the penis, anus or back of the throat in both men and women. However, there are ways to prevent these complications through lifestyle changes, screening and early treatment.
Avoid Smoking
One of the most important lifestyle factors that can impact HPV and associated health risks is smoking cigarettes. Smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder for the body to clear an HPV infection. This means smoking increases the risk of developing abnormalities that can lead to cancer.
Studies show that women who smoke are twice as likely to develop cervical cell changes that may lead to cancer compared to nonsmokers. Continued smoking also reduces the effectiveness of cervical cancer treatment. In men, smoking doubles the risk of penile cancer associated with HPV.
Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke exposure is one of the best ways to lower HPV-related cancer risks. Studies show that former smokers have lower cervical cancer rates than current smokers. Even cutting back on smoking can help.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Drinking a lot of alcohol, especially heavily over many years, can also weaken the immune system. This makes it harder for the body to naturally clear an HPV infection before it causes problems. Heavy alcohol use is linked to higher risks of cancers associated with HPV, like mouth, throat and esophageal cancers.
Try to limit alcohol intake to moderate levels, defined as 1 drink or less per day for women and 2 drinks or less per day for men. Avoid binge drinking large amounts of alcohol on any occasion.
Practice Safe Sex
Since HPV is mainly spread through sexual contact, practicing safe sex by using condoms reduces the chance of getting infected or passing HPV on to partners. While condoms cannot provide complete protection against HPV due to skin contact in surrounding areas, they lower transmission risk significantly.
Condoms and dental dams used during oral sex also reduce the chances of both acquiring and transmitting HPV strains linked to mouth and throat cancers. Limiting your number of sexual partners can further lower your chances of getting HPV.
Get the HPV Vaccine
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent HPV infection and associated health problems. The HPV vaccine defends against the strains most likely to cause cancers and genital warts. It is recommended for girls and boys starting at ages 11 to 12 years, but can be given as early as age 9 or up to age 45.
The vaccine works best when given before first exposure to HPV through sexual activity. However, even those already infected with some strains can still benefit from protection against other strains in the vaccine. Talk to your doctor about getting your children vaccinated and whether vaccination could benefit you.
Don’t Put Off Pap and HPV Screenings
Routine cervical cancer screening with Pap smears and HPV testing can detect precancerous changes that can be treated before they turn into cancer. Current guidelines recommend Pap smear and HPV testing every 5 years for women ages 30 to 65. Women ages 21 to 29 should have a Pap smear every 3 years.
Men and women engaging in anal sex should also consider regular anal Pap smears. Don’t avoid or delay screening out of embarrassment or fear of results. Catching issues early leads to much better outcomes.
Watch for Genital Warts and Growths
Visible warts in the genital area caused by HPV tend to be low risk. However, they indicate that you have been infected with a strain of HPV and should take precautions. Using condoms reduces the chance of transmission.
Follow up promptly if you notice any new bumps, lesions or other abnormal growths around the genitals or anus. Early identification and removal of precancerous lesions can prevent progression to cancer. Notify your doctor of any unexplained swelling or lumps in the neck, groin or armpit which could signal advanced cancer.
Get Appropriate Follow-Up Care
If cell changes concerning for cancer precursors or early cancer are identified on a Pap smear or HPV test, follow your doctor’s recommendations for additional testing and treatment. This may include procedures to remove abnormal cells or regular monitoring with repeat Pap smears. Prompt treatment of precancerous changes is important to prevent invasive cervical cancer.
Consider HPV Testing for Partners
If you test positive for a high-risk strain of HPV or have cell changes detected, consider having your partner get an HPV test too. This can identify if they also carry a high-risk strain that could potentially cause cancer. Knowing their HPV status allows appropriate monitoring and health precautions.
Practice Good Hygiene
While HPV transmission mainly occurs during sex, general hygienic practices can aid prevention. Shower after sex and wash your genitals thoroughly with warm water and soap. Avoid sharing towels and underwear. Clean sex toys thoroughly between uses and use condoms when sharing.
Strengthen Your Immune System
Anything you can do to keep your immune system strong and healthy can support your body’s ability to clear HPV naturally. Eat a balanced, nutritious diet full of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Exercise regularly, control stress levels, avoid smoking, and try to get enough sleep.
Use Caution with Immunosuppressants
Medications or health conditions that suppress your immune response can make it harder to clear HPV. This includes drugs like steroids, biologics used for autoimmune diseases, and chemotherapy. If taking immunosuppressants, be vigilant about cancer screenings and other HPV precautions.
Avoid Skin-to-Skin Contact with Warts
The strains of HPV that cause common warts on hands and feet are different than those linked to cancers and genital warts. However, avoid skin-to-skin contact with areas containing visible warts. Also avoid touching your eyes or mouth after touching warts to prevent spread to other body areas.
Conclusion
While many HPV infections resolve without complications, you can take some precautions to avoid problems. Get vaccinated, don’t smoke, use protection, and get regular screenings. See your doctor promptly for any concerning symptoms like genital warts or abnormal growths. With appropriate care, the risk of HPV turning into cancer is very low.