Why is HPV important?
This is because, on the one hand, HPV infection is extremely common, and on the other hand, high-risk types of the virus can potentially cause precancerous lesions in the lower genital tract, some of which can progress to invasive cancer.
What is the progression of persistent HPV infection?
In the vast majority of cases, the immune system successfully controls the infection, suppressing it within 2 years. If this does not happen, mild (low-grade) lesions may appear on the cervix. Low-grade lesions spontaneously regress in a high percentage of cases, but some may progress to high-grade lesions. At this stage, we usually discuss treatment for the lesion (local removal). Some neglected high-grade lesions progress over time to invasive carcinoma. The time interval from initial infection to cancer development is 15+ years.
Why should I get an HPV test?
The HPV test is now used internationally either simultaneously with or instead of the Pap test. Guidelines in Greece recommend its performance together with the Pap test for women over 30 years old. The reason is that it increases the sensitivity of screening; in other words, its use dramatically reduces the number of women who will develop cancer due to a false negative result.
What can I do to help my body suppress HPV infection?
Ablative treatments for high-grade lesions do not alter the long-term risk of HPV infection. However, they may help in short-term suppression by reducing the viral load, and there is evidence that vaccination immediately after treatment reduces the likelihood of recurrence.
It has been established that quitting smoking doubles the chance of HPV suppression by the immune system. The use of condoms, successful treatment of chronic cervical inflammations such as bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections, as well as a good balance of vaginal flora, have also been shown in published studies to statistically increase the likelihood of active infection suppression. Specialized formulations aimed at strengthening the immunological response against HPV also appear to have a positive contribution.
Many thanks for the collaboration to Ms. Dr. Christina Founta, Surgeon Gynecologist, PhD, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Colposcopy Clinic, “Mitera” Hospital Consultant Gynaecologist in Gynaecological Oncology & Colposcopy Lead, Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital, London, UK