I’M AT RISK OF HPV AND CERVICAL CANCER?

Whether you are sexually active or not, in a monogamous relationship, or practicing safe sex, you are at risk of cervical cancer.¹⁹

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cervix.¹⁹ Almost all cervical cancer cases are linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), a widespread sexually transmitted infection.¹⁸ HPV can spread through any intimate contact and often has no symptoms. One partner may be all it takes for you to get infected, and even if you are not sexually active now, your future partner may unknowingly pass it to you.¹⁹ 

There are over 150 types of HPV, with some carrying a larger risk than others. Low-risk HPVs may appear as genital warts, but seldom cause cancer.³ There are 14 high-risk HPV types that can cause cervical cancer and other types of cancer in both men and women.⁶ Among these, HPV types 16, 18, 52 and 58 are responsible for 75% of cervical cancer cases.^2,20,21

Thankfully, cervical cancer is highly preventable.²² You can learn more about HPV prevention, including the options available and how to receive optimal protection, to reject your risk.