HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Testing is a crucial screening step to prevent cervical cancer before symptoms even appear. As one of the most common cancers in women, this test helps you identify your risk at an asymptomatic, early, or pre-cancerous stage, allowing for timely treatment. Today, Ramkhamhaeng Hospital will clarify all doubts and provide full details regarding HPV testing and care planning. This information is vital for both women and men, covering treatment methods, symptom observation, and safe locations for HPV vaccination.
There are over 100 strains of the HPV (Human Papillomavirus), but only about 40 strains cause disease in humans. Infection occurs through direct contact, such as sexual activity involving the genitals, anus, mouth, or throat. Importantly, it often shows no symptoms and can take 10-20 years to develop into cancer. Common key strains include:
Infection usually occurs through direct contact, such as sexual intercourse. Both men and women can be infected in the genitals, anus, mouth, and throat. Generally, infected individuals show no symptoms, but the virus can take 10-20 years to develop into cancer.
Since those infected often don't know it, they can unknowingly spread the virus to others. HPV is a silent threat that leads to serious diseases like cancer. While there is currently no cure for the HPV virus itself, it can be prevented through vaccination. In Thailand, three types are available:
Vaccination is an excellent way to prevent infection and reduce cancer risk, combined with safe sexual behavior.
HPV is a major cause of several types of cancer, such as:
High-risk HPV strains, such as 16 and 18, are the primary cause of cervical cancer, found in nearly all cases (99.7%). This virus is transmitted through sexual contact. High-risk strains can lead to cervical cancer, while low-risk strains cause genital warts.
Vaginal cancer is a rare cancer that usually starts in the cells lining the vagina. Primary risk factors include:
Since this disease is linked to HPV, vaccination and protection during sex can help reduce the risk.
Anal cancer often presents symptoms similar to hemorrhoids, such as abnormal bowel movements, narrowing of the stool, or anal discharge. The main cause is HPV infection, especially strains 16 and 18, transmitted through contact or sex. Other risk factors include:
Treatment depends on the stage of the disease, severity, and the patient's overall health.
Mouth and throat cancer is a serious disease caused by abnormal cells in the oral cavity and throat that can grow and spread. Key symptoms include mouth sores, lumps, voice changes, difficulty swallowing, and pain or numbness in the mouth. Other contributing risk factors include:
Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection caused by low-risk HPV strains such as 6 and 11. They appear as warts or rough growths around the genitals, groin, or anus. Symptoms may include itching, burning, or abnormal discharge. The virus thrives in moist environments. While the warts can be treated, the HPV virus remains in the body. Prevention is possible through HPV vaccination.
It is important to understand that HPV is spread through sexual contact, and even those with only one partner are at risk. High-risk groups include:
HPV is a silent threat, but it can be prevented. The best prevention methods include:
The HPV vaccine is the best shield against cervical cancer, especially when administered at a young age when the body builds immunity most effectively.
Rest assured of safety at Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, an internationally accredited facility with expert personnel and certified vaccines. Our vaccines can prevent up to 90% of cervical cancer. While minor side effects may occur, they typically resolve on their own within 1-2 days. For further inquiries or to book a health check-up, please consult our doctors directly.
