HPV (human papillomavirus) can affect all people. Some groups have ahigher likelihood of persistent HPV or HPV-related cancers due to differences in exposure, access to screening, and immune response — not individual behavior or identity, including:
• Trans and nonbinary individuals
• Men who have sex with men
• People living with HIV or with weakened immune systems
• Anyone engaging in receptive anal sex
HPV-related anorectal cancers are increasing among people who engage in receptive anal sex. Gay, bisexual, trans men, queer men, trans women, and people living with HIV experience higher rates of persistent HPV and higher risk of anorectal cancers.
HPV is spread through:
• Oral, penile, anal, or vaginal contact
• Intimate skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity
• Contact even when no symptoms or warts are present
• HPV can infect areas not covered by condoms or barriers.
Most people with HPV have no symptoms, but some types can cause:
• Genital or anal warts
• Cell changes that may lead to cancer
HPV-related cancers can affect:
Cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus, head and neck, and throat.
Symptoms, when present, may include genital, anal, or oral growths or sores (raised or flat bumps).
There is no treatment for HPV itself, but conditions it causes — including genital warts, precancerous cell changes, and cancers — can be treated, especially when found early.
Genital warts may resolve on their own, remain the same, increase in size, or recur after treatment.
• Routine screening for penile, anal, or throat HPV is not recommended for the general population.
• Some clinicians offer anal Pap tests to people at higher risk, including people living with HIV or those who engage in receptive anal sex.
• Early detection of cell changes caused by HPV can reduce the risk of anorectal cancers.
• Cervical cancer screening (Pap test or HPV test) is recommended for people with a cervix beginning at age 21.
• There is no routine HPV test available for all people or all body parts.
• Get vaccinated
• Use of condoms and barriers when having sex can greatly lessen risk.
• Regular cervical cancer screening for those with a cervix.
Routine vaccination: Ages 11–12 (can begin as early as age 9)
Catch-up vaccination: Everyone through age 26 who has not completed the series
Additional guidance: People ages 27–45 may choose vaccination through shared decision-making with a provider. People living with HIV should receive the 3-dose series (0, 2, and 6 months).
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil) is available to anyone who believes they maybe at risk. In some states and regions, the vaccine is available free of charge based on age, risk profile, and ability to pay.
If ASGCC does not have vaccination on hand, a team member can help link you to local vaccine providers.
For more info, call the Ptown Drop-in Center at 508.487.8311