HPV Understanding Your Risk

Understanding HPV Risk and Cancer Development

What is HPV and has everyone been exposed to it.

Approximately 10% of people who acquire HPV will develop a persistent infection, which can increase the risk of cancer. When HPV-related cancer does occur, it typically develops slowly often over 10 to 20 years.

There are more than 200 types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Most are considered low risk and resolve without issue. However, 12 HPV types are classified as high risk because they have the potential to contribute to cancer if the immune system does not clear the infection.Importantly, HPV does not usually lead to cancer. About 70% of HPV infections clear within one year, and approximately 90% resolve within two years without medical intervention.

HPV Types 16 and 18

HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for the majority of HPV-related cancers and are considered the most aggressive strains.

• Together, they account for over 70% of cervical cancer cases

• HPV 16 alone is responsible for approximately 50% of cervical cancers worldwide

• These strains are also linked to about 70% of anal cancers

Despite this association, more than 90% of HPV 16 and 18 infections still clear naturally within 6 to 18 months.

HPV 16 and 18 have also been linked to other cancers, including anal and oropharyngeal (throat) cancers.

Other High-Risk HPV Types Linked to Cervical CancerIn addition to types 16 and 18, eight other HPV types have been found in cervical cancer cases:

31, 33, 35, 45, 51, 52, 56, and 58Among these:

• HPV 31 is closely related to HPV 16 and is associated with about 4% of cervical cancers globally

• Types 31, 33, 52, and 58 have been linked to a higher risk of CIN 2, a precancerous cervical condition that can progress if untreated

• HPV 45 is more frequently found in invasive cervical cancer cases, alongside HPV 16 and 18

HPV Type 39 and Anal Cancer

Research on HPV type 39 is limited. One study identified it as a risk factor for anal cancer in HIV-positive men who have sex with men, as well as for anal intraepithelial neoplasia, a precancerous condition.

More research is needed to fully understand its role in cancer development.

HPV Type 59

HPV type 59, closely related to HPV 18, has been associated with:

• Cervical cancer

• Oropharyngeal (throat) cancer

It has also been observed in individuals with Bowen’s disease, an early and typically treatable form of skin cancer. Its association with anal cancer appears to be weaker compared to other high-risk strains.

The Bottom Line

HPV-related cancer develops only when a high-risk infection persists over time. Most infections resolve naturally, and persistence—not exposure—is the key risk factor.

While cervical cancer screening is well established, screening options for other HPV-related cancers are limited, making awareness of symptoms essential.

Symptoms that should prompt medical evaluation include:

• Lumps in the mouth, throat, neck, or genital area

• Vaginal or anal bleeding

• Pain during sex

• Persistent lower back, pelvic, or anal pain

• Changes in bowel or bladder control

• Chronic sore throat

HPV-related cancers are often highly treatable when detected early, which is why timely evaluation and follow-up matter.

Click the link below and book your free discovery call with Cami Grasher, Root Cause Holistic Health Coach. You can also call or text her direct with any questions at (214) 558-0996. Your health is in your hands, are you ready to take charge?

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