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What is HPV?
Viruses are microscopic organisms that can live in the cells of our bodies and may cause disease.
There are over 100 types of human papillomavirus or HPV that affect different parts of the body. Some types of HPV cause warts, but most HPV infection is invisible. The types of HPV that affect the genital area may show up on Pap smear results.
Anyone who has ever had sex may have been in contact with genital HPV. Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are very common viral infections which usually clear up by themselves within one to two years. In rare cases, some types of the virus persist and if left undetected may lead to cervical cancer.
The link between HPV and cervical cancer
Key facts:
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HPV is a virus (human papillomavirus).
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Almost all abnormal Pap smear results are caused by genital HPV.
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Anyone who has ever had sex can have genital HPV - it’s so common that four out of five people will have had HPV at some time in their lives.
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In most cases, it clears up by itself in one to two years.
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In rare cases, if the virus persists and is left undetected, it can lead to cervical cancer. This usually takes about 10 years.
A Pap smear every two years can detect any abnormal cell changes caused by genital HPV. This can then be monitored and/or treated to prevent cancer.
More information on the link between HPV and cervical cancer can be found at the National Cervical Screening Program website: http://www.cervicalscreen.health.gov.au/internet/screening/publishing.nsf/Content/cv-hpv
HPV vaccine
Vaccines are available that can prevent infection with the types of
genital HPV that cause most cases of cervical cancer.
In Australia, a HPV vaccine is available free for females between
the ages 12 and 26 years under the National Immunisation Program.
Regular Pap smears are still essential as the HPV vaccine does not
protect against all the HPV types that can cause cervical cancer.
HPV Immunisation
In SA, the department responsible for coordination and implementation of the HPV vaccination program is the Immunisation Section, within the Communicable Disease Control Branch of the Department of Health.
Information on HPV and the HPV vaccine program is available from:
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General HPV immunisation enquires: Australian Government National Immunisation Info line (free call) 1800-671-811
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The National HPV Vaccination Program, Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing website: http://www.health.gov.au/cervicalcancer
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Immunise Australia Program, Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing website: http://www.immunise.health.gov.au/
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Communicable Disease Control Branch: (08) 8226-7177, and website: http://www.dh.sa.gov.au/pehs/immunisation-index.htm
