What is HPV?
HPV, or Human Papilloma virus, is a virus that causes genital warts and is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. HPV infection can occur in both men and women who engage in regular sexual activity. There are more than 50 strains of HPV, some of which can cause cervical, mouth, and anal cancer, making it a significant global public health issue.
How is HPV transmitted?
HPV can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an individual who has HPV. HPV infection is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse and can be spread to others even if the infected person does not have symptoms.
How dangerous is an HPV infection?
Although 90% of people infected with HPV do not show symptoms, if left without proper examination and treatment, it can develop to cause genital warts, cervical cancer, or anal cancer. The most common symptom of genital warts is a lump with rough skin protruding from the skin of the penis, clitoris, or around the anus. This is a lesion that can infect the sexual partner.
How does HPV lead to cancer?
Some strains of HPV, such as type 16 and type 18, can lead to cervical or anal cancer due to their high cancer-causing potential (high virulence). Other strains, such as types 6, 11, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, have a lower cancer-causing potential (low virulence).
How can we tell if we have been infected with HPV?
Screening for HPV infection can be done using the HPV DNA Typing method, which is a PCR test with an accuracy of up to 99.9%. It can be screened from the first void urine in the morning because it contains the highest amount of HPV in the day. Vaginal secretions or anal secretions can be used for HPV screening using the HPV DNA typing method. The HPV DNA typing screening method specifically looks for HPV strains that can cause cancer.
What should one do if they know they have the type of HPV that can cause cancer?
If the female client tests positive for the HPV strain that can lead to cancer, the doctor will recommend that she see a gynecologist for a PAP Smear test to check for abnormal cells or cells that may develop into cancer.
HPV Infection Testing Service at PSK Clinic
PSK Clinic primarily utilizes urine tests, which can be administered for both men and women.
Preparation steps:
- Consult a doctor for diagnosis and information about the procedures and treatment methods.
- The doctor will collect a urine sample for laboratory testing. The entire process takes only 15-20 minutes.
