Globally, there has been a growing need for more awareness of the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is important to equip yourself with accurate information on the human papillomavirus as an important step towards helping prevent the spread of the virus. Everyone in society has a role to play to help reduce the occurrence of HPV-related diseases. In this article, we have provided verified information to help you understand HPV infections, vaccination and ways of reducing the risk of virus infection.
What is the human papillomavirus (HPV)?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common Sexually Transmitted infection (STI) that can affect different parts of the body. There are over 100 types of HPV, including some types of HPV that cause warts on the hands, feet, face, genitals etc. Warts are non-cancerous growths that can develop on your skin and inside your mouth. Different strains may cause warts in different parts of the body. Warts can be spread from one location on the body to another or from person to person by contact with the wart.
The main symptom is a fleshy, painless growth on the skin.
About 30 types of HPV can affect the genitals, including the vulva, vagina, cervix, penis and scrotum, as well as the rectum and anus. Some HPV infections can lead to various health problems, including cancers such as cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and some oropharyngeal (throat) cancers. According to the ICO/IARC Information Centre on HPV and Cancer- Kenya 2023 factsheet, about 9.1% of women in the general population are estimated to harbour cervical HPV-16/18 infection at a given time and 63.1% of invasive cervical cancers are attributed to HPVs 16 or18.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), almost all sexually active people around the world will be infected at some point in their lives, usually without symptoms. Once someone is infected with HPV, there is no specific cure for the virus itself. However, the body's immune system can often clear the virus naturally over time, especially in younger individuals. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and health issues caused by HPV-related conditions.
How HPV can spread
HPV infections are spread primarily through direct skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual activity. The virus can infect the genital area, as well as the mouth and throat. While condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, they do not provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom.
Some of the health problems caused by Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Genital warts: Some HPV infections may cause warts around the genital and anal areas. While genital warts are usually not cancerous, they can be bothersome and may require treatment to remove.
- Cervical abnormalities: HPV infections, particularly those caused by high-risk types of the virus, can lead to changes in cervical cells. These changes may be detected through Pap smear test or HPV tests; The changes range from mild to severe abnormalities. If left untreated, these abnormalities can progress to cervical cancer over time.
- Cervical cancer: Persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV is the primary risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV-related cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Regular cervical cancer screening through Pap smears and HPV tests is crucial for early detection and treatment of precancerous changes or cervical cancer.
- Other HPV-related cancers: HPV infections can increase the risk of other cancers, including vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and some oropharyngeal (throat) cancers. These cancers may develop if high-risk HPV infections persist and cause changes in the affected tissue cells.
- Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP): This is a rare condition characterized by the growth of benign tumours (papillomas) in the respiratory tract, including the throat and lungs. RRP can lead to voice changes, breathing difficulties, and other respiratory symptoms.
- Increased risk of HPV transmission: HPV infections can be transmitted to sexual partners, increasing their risk of developing the above-mentioned conditions. A 2023 study by the Lancet Global Health found that almost 1 in 3 men over the age of 15 are infected with at least one genital human papillomavirus (HPV) type, and 1 in 5 are infected with one or more of what are known as high risk, or cancer-causing, HPV types.
HPV prevention
The HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies against the virus, thus preventing infection. The vaccine is typically administered in a series of shots over several months. In Kenya, 2 doses of the vaccine are provided, with the second one delivered 6 months after the first dose. It is recommended for both males and females and is often given during adolescence before individuals become sexually active, but it can also be given to sexually active individuals who haven't been vaccinated. The HPV Vaccine is safe and effective, has been independently evaluated and licensed for use in Kenya since 2007 and continues to be used in Routine Immunization Programs of more than 115 countries worldwide.
The HPV vaccine itself is not a treatment for HPV infections. Instead, it is a preventive measure against certain strains of the human papillomavirus. Getting vaccinated with the HPV vaccine is the most effective method. However, there are additional measures individuals can take to reduce their risk of contracting HPV:
- Safe sexual practices: Practicing safe sex, including the consistent and correct use of condoms, can reduce the risk of HPV transmission. While condoms don't provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom, they can still help reduce the risk.
- Limiting sexual partners: Limiting the number of sexual partners and being in a mutual relationship with one uninfected partner can reduce the risk of HPV transmission.
- Regular HPV screening: For females, regular Pap smears (Pap tests) and HPV tests are essential for early detection of cervical changes or HPV infections that could lead to cancer. There is no routine HPV test for men, although some doctors recommend that gay and bisexual men undergo anal pap tests due to their comparably higher risk of transmitting or contracting the virus. Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for screening frequency.
- Avoiding high-risk behaviors: Avoiding behaviors that increase the risk of HPV infection, such as smoking, can also help reduce the likelihood of contracting the virus.
- Vaccinating boys and men: HPV vaccination is not just for females; it's also recommended for boys and men to prevent HPV-related cancers and genital warts. In Kenya, the policy recommends that the vaccine is offered to the most at-risk persons, who the government considers to be girls of 10-14 years of age. This is based on the assumption that children aged 10-14 are not yet sexually active and, therefore, have not been exposed to the virus. By the time they reach young adulthood and become sexually active, they will already be protected. Otherwise, in countries with surplus health resources, the HPV vaccine can be given up to mid-20s. The vaccine is available for free in public health facilities nationwide.
Note: Most HPV infections do not cause any symptoms or health problems and they clear up on their own without treatment. However, persistent infections with high-risk HPV strains can lead to more serious health issues over time. If you have concerns about HPV or its potential health effects, consult with healthcare providers within your reach for evaluation and guidance.
Where can one get the HPV Vaccine?
Within the refugee camps in Kenya, the HPV vaccine is free in all IRC facilities in Kakuma, while in Hagadera, you can get the vaccine at health post-L6, E6 and the IRC Main Hospital. The vaccination is also free in Government facilities and has been incorporated into the normal vaccination schedule of children.
For other locations, please consult the nearest government or private facility for further guidance.
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