Understanding HPV: The silent virus behind cervical cancer and how to prevent it

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most wide-spread viruses that can lead to cervical cancer. As part of efforts to increase global awareness about the risks associated with HPV, the International HPV Awareness Day is celebrated annually on March 4 to highlight the importance of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the virus.

What to know about HPV?

HPV is a group of viruses primarily affecting the skin and mucous membranes, including areas like the mouth, throat and cervix. There are more than 200 identified HPV types. HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and is categorized into high-risk and low-risk types.

While most HPV infections can be cleared by the body's immune system, some high-risk types can lead to severe health conditions such as cervical cancer. According to China's National Healthcare Security Administration, persistent high-risk HPV infections are the leading cause of cervical cancer, with approximately 99.7% of cervical cancer cases attributed to HPV infections. Notably, HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for around 70% of these cases.

Symptoms of HPV infection

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that most people with HPV infections experience no symptoms. The immune system typically clears the virus within one to two years without lasting effects. However, in some cases, HPV infection can lead to symptoms such as genital warts and cervical cell changes. Cellular changes in the cervix can cause precancers that may develop into cervical cancer if left untreated. It typically takes 15-20 years for cervical cancer to develop after an HPV infection.

According to the WHO, in 2019, HPV caused an estimated 620,000 cancer cases in women and 70,000 cancer cases in men globally.

Vaccines are the key of HPV prevention

Currently, there is no cure for HPV infection itself, but there are treatments for the health issues caused by HPV, such as genital warts, cervical precancers and cervical cancer.

The best way to prevent HPV infections and the related health risks is through vaccination. Dr. Zhu Lan, head of obstetrics and gynecology at Peking Union Medical College Hospital, emphasizes that vaccination can significantly lower the risk of HPV infection. There are currently bivalent, quadrivalent, and nine-valent HPV vaccines available. The WHO recommends the optimal age for vaccination is between 9 and 14 years as early vaccination is more crucial than opting for higher-priced vaccines at a later age. The vaccine is most effective in women who have not yet been sexually active or exposed to HPV.

To further promote HPV vaccination, China has made it a part of its free immunization program starting November 10, 2025. Girls born on or after November 10, 2011, will be eligible for the free bivalent HPV vaccination once they turn 13 years old.

Additionally, males are also encouraged to get vaccinated. "Gender-inclusive prevention" has been globally acknowledged as the key approach to eliminating cervical cancer. China's Public Education Guide on Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control also advocates the concept of HPV prevention for both men and women.

Screening and regular checkups are necessary

Even after vaccination, it is essential to continue with regular HPV screenings or cytological exams. The vaccine does not provide complete protection against all high-risk HPV types, and its effectiveness may wear out over time.

Dr. Qiao Youlin, professor of epidemiology and public health at Peking Union Medical College, points out that early detection of precancerous lesions and proactive management of these changes, along with effective treatment and follow-up, are essential to eliminate cervical cancer.

At present, cervical cancer is the only HPV-related cancer for which screening tests are available, states the WHO. These tests are vital for identifying precancerous cell changes before they develop into cancer.