Overview

This independent guide from DTAPclinic covers clinic services and patient education for readers in Malaysia. Below we explain understanding hpv: what are the risks of human papillomavirus? — malaysia patient guide in accessible language. Content is for education only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or a substitute for care from a registered provider.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) refers to a group of over 100 related viruses, many of which are spread through skin-to-skin contact. While some HPV types cause skin growth called warts, others may lead to cancer. Although most HPV infections clear on their own without causing long-term problems, persistent HPV infection with certain high-risk strains, especially of the cervix, can set the stage for more serious health issues. In addition to its connection with cervical cancer, HPV has also been linked to cancers that affect the anus, penis, vulva, vagina, and the area at the back of the throat (oropharynx).

What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV—short for human papillomavirus—is a sexually transmitted infection transmitted through intimate skin contact. HPV is a common virus that can affect various parts of the body. More than 100 types of HPV have been identified. Some HPV can cause warts on the hands, feet, or face, while around 30 types can cause warts on the genital and anal regions. HPV is categorised into: Low-risk HPV types which may cause genital warts or mild cell changes High-risk HPV types which can lead to more serious cell changes that may progress to cancers While most HPV infections don’t cause symptoms and resolve through the immune system, persistent infections with high-risk HPV types carry the potential for health concerns.

What are the Symptoms of HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections often do not cause noticeable symptoms. That said, when HPV symptoms do appear, the most recognisable sign is the presence of warts. These warts may appear as small, raised lumps that resemble cauliflower or skin tags. They may develop weeks, months, or even years after a person has been infected with certain types of HPV. Different HPV types can lead to different kinds of warts, including: Genital warts: These can vary in appearance, sometimes flat and sometimes resembling small, raised bumps. In individuals with a cervix, genital warts can occur around the vulva, cervix, vagina, or anus. In individuals with a penis, they can appear on the shaft, scrotum, or surrounding areas. Genital warts are transmissible through skin contact and can sometimes cause irritation or discomfort. Common warts: These typically appear as rough, raised growths on the hands or fingers. While harmless, they can be bothersome or prone to irritation. Plantar warts: These are firm, grainy bumps that form on the soles of the feet, often around pressure points like the heels or balls of the feet. Walking may cause discomfort in some cases. Flat warts: These are slightly elevated spots that may appear on different parts of the body. In children, they are often found on the face; in men, around the beard area; and in women, on the legs. Types of HPV that are classified as high risk usually do not present visible symptoms in the early stages. In some cases, the infection may remain unnoticed until it progresses to cancer.

How HPV May Lead to Cell Changes and Cancer

Certain types of HPV, especially those classified as high risk, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, may stay in the body over time. In some individuals, these persistent infections can interfere with the natural functioning of cells. This disruption may cause cells to grow irregularly or fail to die when they should, which can gradually result in the formation of abnormal tissue. These changes in the body's cells caused by HPV, if not detected or managed, may eventually progress to cancer. For example, around 10% of individuals with HPV present in the cervical area may go on to develop a long-lasting infection. Over time, this may increase the likelihood of abnormal cells appearing, which in turn may lead to cervical cancer . Although less frequently, high-risk types of HPV can also affect other areas, including the vulva, vagina, penis, and anus. When infections occur in these areas, they may cause precancerous cell changes. But, compared to cervical cancer, much less is known about how often these other cancers occur in people with HPV.

How HPV is Related to Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is closely linked to persistent infections with high-risk HPV. This risk is why regular HPV testing and cervical screening are recommended. Most often, infections do not progress to cancer. But when high-risk HPV persists, it can cause cervical cells to become precancerous and, if not treated, develop into cancer.

How Long Does it Take for HPV to Turn Into Cancer

This usually happens gradually, often over several years or even decades. Routine screenings, such as Pap tests, play an important role in identifying changes early before they potentially become cancer.

The Risk Factors

Certain factors contribute to a higher risk of HPV infection and related complications: Having multiple sexual partners or beginning sexual activity at a younger age Not using barrier protection like condoms A weakened immune system Infrequent or no cervical screening Family history of cervical cancer

How HPV is Spread

HPV is transmitted primarily through skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral contact. The virus can spread when the genital areas of one person come into contact with those of another. It helps to note that HPV can be transmitted even without penetrative sex. Using protection such as condoms may help lower the chance of transmission, but it may not completely prevent it. In some cases, HPV may also be passed through hand-to-genital contact, although this form of transmission is not as well understood and appears to be less common than direct genital contact. Because the virus spreads through skin contact and not bodily fluids, people may transmit or contract HPV without being aware that they have it.

How to Prevent HPV Infection

Get the HPV vaccine: The HPV vaccine is recommended for preteens and young adults; it protects against the highest-risk strains. Barrier protection (condoms): Helps lower the risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections Routine cervical screening: Regular Pap smears and HPV tests help catch cell changes early Limiting the number of sexual partners Supporting the body’s immune response through non-smoking, good nutrition, exercise, and managing stress

What Tests Can Diagnose an HPV Infection

A healthcare provider may be able to recognise certain signs of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) , such as visible warts, during a physical examination. That said, high-risk HPV types often do not cause outward symptoms. For this reason, people are more likely to learn about these infections during routine screenings. Pap smear: To check for abnormal cells in the cervix. If not managed, these cells may develop into cervical cancer over time. HPV test: This test identifies high-risk HPV strains that impact cervical cells. Colposcopy: If screening results show abnormal changes or the presence of HPV, a provider may use a colposcope, a magnifying tool that allows closer inspection of the cervix. If needed, a small sample of tissue may be taken for further examination (biopsy). Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA): In areas where other tests may not be available, healthcare providers may use a vinegar-based solution on the cervix. The solution helps highlight areas of concern by turning abnormal tissue white.

Treatment for HPV

While there is no direct cure that eliminates HPV from the body, treatment focuses on managing its effects, such as removing visible warts or treating abnormal cell changes to lower the chance of progression. Topical options and procedures for wart removal Prescription creams are applied directly to warts Cryotherapy uses cold temperatures to remove lesions Electrocautery or using controlled heat to treat warts Laser treatment may be used in cases that require targeted removal Applying trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to warts Procedures for managing abnormal cervical cells Loop electrosurgical excision procedure: Uses a thin wire loop to remove areas of concern on the cervix Cold knife cone biopsy: Removes a cone-shaped section of tissue that may contain abnormal cells

Summary

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread sexually transmitted virus with varying levels of risk. While most infections clear naturally, high-risk HPV types may lead to changes in cells that, over time, elevate the risk of cancer, especially cervical cancer. Genital warts and other skin lesions commonly result from low-risk HPV types but are not linked to malignancy. Prevention through getting the HPV vaccine, using protection, and regular cervical screening is important to help early detection and nurturing better health outcomes. If you have questions or concerns, speak with a healthcare provider who can guide you on testing, the importance of the HPV vaccine, and other protective measures.