Go to Content Go to Navigation Go to Navigation Go to Site Search Homepage

The human papillomavirus is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, yet 70% of Americans have never heard of it.

  • There are more than 100 types of HPV. About 30 of these are sexually transmitted and cause genital HPV.
  • Genital warts are the most common manifestation of genital HPV, but some types of HPV can cause cervical cancer if not detected in time.
  • HPV is responsible for nearly 70% of all cervical cancers.
  • 30% of oral cancers are related to HPV.
  • People often carry the virus without showing symptoms.
  • HPV is transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual.
  • Nearly 75% of Americans age 15 to 49 have been infected with genital HPV at some point in their lives.
  • Proper and consistent use of condoms can reduce, but does not eliminate the risk of HPV transmission.

Can HPV be prevented?

There is a vaccine to prevent some types of HPV infection. It's called Gardasil. It's available through Planned Parenthood of Delaware, and we recommend individuals age 9-26 be vaccinated. It is generally available to you at no cost.

Call (800) 230-PLAN for more information and to schedule an appointment.

More information about Gardasil

Pap Tests & HPV Tests
 


Sources:
Planned Parenthood Federation of America

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention