Debunking Common Myths Regarding Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is one of the most prevalent gynecologic cancers and, unsurprisingly, one of the easiest to develop. Many people still have misconceptions about it due to its unique causative factors compared to other cancers. Dr. Asama Vanichtantikul, a gynecologic specialist in endoscopic surgery and gynecologic oncology, provides accurate and valuable insights regarding this crucial health issue.
Cervical cancer is due to a virus, not genetic factors.
While many cancers have a genetic component that is inheritable from parents to children, the primary cause of cervical cancer is infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in 99% of cases. Nearly all cervical cancers have no hereditary underpinning.
Does foregoing sexual intercourse eliminate the risk of cervical cancer?
Many people think that abstaining from sexual intercourse eliminates the risk of cervical cancer. However, Dr. Asama clarifies that while sexual activity does increase the risk of cervical cancer, individuals who have never been sexually active can still be at risk.
Even without sexual intercourse, activities involving penetration, such as using sex toys or manual penetration, can still lead to HPV infection if proper hygiene is not maintained. The infection can, in turn, increase the risk of developing cervical cancer. The good news is that this virus is preventable. HPV vaccination can significantly minimize the risk of cervical cancer.
Do men without a cervix need the vaccine?
First, it is crucial to know that the HPV virus does not only cause cervical cancer. Men, even without a cervix, can contract the virus and develop other related diseases. Currently, there is no FDA-approved HPV testing for men, meaning there is no standardized screening as we have for women. If a man notices warts on his body, particularly in the genital or scrotal area, it may indicate an HPV infection, warranting medical evaluation. In some cases, doctors may perform an anal Pap smear to screen for early signs of precancerous conditions or anal cancer.
In addition to cervical cancer, HPV is also responsible for conditions such as genital warts, anal cancer, oral and throat cancers, and penile cancer. The vaccination can help prevent the viral sexual transmission from men to women. It is advisable for everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community, to get the HPV vaccine.
The vaccine administration can start as early as age 9, or typically between the ages of 11 and 12, per general guidelines. Children aged 9 to 14 require two vaccine doses, while those 15 and older need three doses. This vaccination provides long-term protection against HPV infection.
