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| HPV (Human Papillomavirus) > Background Information |
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Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted disease that is highly prevalent, yet often misunderstood. Recent scientific advances have established that certain types of HPV can cause cervical cancer. However, this cancer can almost always be prevented through regular screening and, if needed, treatment of abnormal cell changes. The challenge is to provide focused, much-needed education about HPV without causing undue fear. Approximately 5.5 million new cases of sexually transmitted HPV occur in the U.S. each year, with at least 20 million people estimated to be currently infected. Direct annual medical costs for treating symptoms of HPV infection in the United States are estimated at $1.6 billion and the cost of the cervical cancer screening program (Pap smears) is $5 billion - $6 billion every year. Because research linking genital HPV and cervical cancer is relatively new, there is considerable confusion among patients, medical professionals, policy makers and the general public as to the best counseling, screening, treatment and prevention practices. Additionally, while anal and penile cancers are uncommon, HPV can put men at risk for these cancers, so care should be taken not to leave them out of these equations.. The majority of Americans are unaware of the link between certain types of HPV and cervical cancer: in one national survey, 70 percent of women were unable to name the cause of cervical cancer, and 76 percent had never heard of HPV. Additionally, fewer than half of clinicians responding to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey in 2004 were aware of differences between “high-risk” and “low-risk” HPV types. Exciting new technologies and research findings have advanced the capacity to conduct better HPV and cervical cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Yet, their role in clinical management is often misunderstood. This lack of clarity, coupled with discomfort surrounding issues related to STDs and limited provider time for counseling/patient education, contribute to what is often perceived by patients as inadequate and inconsistent information and advice. Misinformation and overly frightening views about genital HPV abound. Many patients are puzzled or angry that they were unaware of HPV and their personal risk for acquiring the virus. Many are frustrated by the difficulty of finding clear, accurate, up-to-date information and counseling about a potentially life-threatening condition. Among policy makers, the misinformation and confusion surrounding HPV has fueled discussion. In 1999, Congress debated whether to require screening and reporting for HPV, condom labeling, and warnings on educational materials about HPV and other STDs. Overall, federal funding in HPV research and treatment is limited in scope and remains poorly funded. |
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