September is devoted to increasing awareness about the significance, consequences, and prevention of HPV infections.
Infection with human papillomaviruses (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, as the majority of sexually active women and men become infected with HPV at least once in their lifetime. HPV viruses constitute a large group that causes numerous illnesses in humans. Low-risk genotypes of HPV are primarily involved in the development of anogenital warts and throat papillomatosis, while high-risk types are associated with the occurrence of almost 100% of cervical cancer cases, 88% of anal cancer, 78% of vaginal cancer, 25% of vulvar cancer, 50% of penile cancer, and 31% of oropharyngeal cancer cases.
According to the Cancer Registry of Slovenia, over 100 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually, and more than 40 lose their lives due to this disease each year. Similar to precancerous changes, cervical cancer can remain asymptomatic for an extended period. Unfortunately, when symptoms do appear, the disease is often already advanced.
It's crucial to emphasize that the onset of cervical cancer can be actively prevented. Cervical cancer holds a unique position among cancerous diseases as the first cancer where global elimination is a feasible goal. Achieving the 'eradication' of cervical cancer requires responsible and consistent adherence to the recommendations and measures of modern preventive healthcare—practicing responsible and safe sexuality, getting vaccinated against HPV, regularly participating in national screening programs for early detection of precancerous changes, and timely treatment of precancerous cervical changes
This year, the Slovenian Association of Societies for the Fight Against Cancer invited the renowned youth author, Desa Muck, to collaborate on raising awareness about the severe consequences of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. In partnership with experts, an informative publication was created. Through her witty and distinctive style, the author addresses parents, especially those facing the decision about HPV vaccination for their sixth-grade children as the school year begins."
Comments