Myths about the human papilloma virus

He human papilloma virus (HPV) This is one of the main causes Cervical cancerthis is the fourth most common type of cancer among women.

According to World Health Organization (WHO)HPV infection causes about 5% of cancers in the world.

An estimated 625,600 women and 69,400 men develop HPV-related cancer each year.

IN Panama In 2020, the crude incidence of cervical cancer in the country was 16.1 cases per 100,000 women, according to the WHO.

Meanwhile, the two most important measures for prevent cervical cancer vaccination against HPV and performing screening tests or screening for diagnosis routine early treatment in accordance with medical recommendations.

Cervical cancer can be prevented by early vaccinationsaid Dr. Carmela Oranges, executive director of medical affairs for MSD.

In Panama, the vaccine is available in the Expanded Immunization Program for 10-year-old boys and girls and a fundamental tool to protect them from this and others diseases associated with HPV.’

Like other vaccines that protect against viral infections, HPV vaccines stimulate the body to produce antibodies. When the body is later confronted with HPV, these antibodies bind to the virus and prevent it from infecting cells, thus reducing the risk of developing cancer. HPV in other parts of the body.

For this reason, experts present information about HPV, the virus that causes cancer, and how to prevent it:

– ⦁ Myth: If HPV disappears, it is not possible to re-infect it.

Fact: There are different types of HPV. Although one species may disappear, it is possible to contract another species.

– Myth: HPV spreads through public baths and swimming pools.

Fact: HPV is not transmitted through sex public toiletshugging or holding hands, sharing food or dishes.

– Myth: HPV is transmitted only if it is present symptoms.

Fact: A person with HPV can pass the infection to another person even when there are no signs or symptoms.

– Myth: HPV is transmitted only if you have several sexual partners.

Fact: HPV infections are so common that almost everyone sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives.

– Myth: HPV infection is rare.

Reality: The infections HPV infections are so common that almost all sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives.