Questions like "Am I infected?", "Could I have genital warts?", and "Is it curable?" constantly swirled in his mind, causing him significant distress. Seeking advice online only led to more confusion as he received conflicting information.
Hoang explained that his girlfriend's HPV diagnosis prompted her doctor to recommend further tests to assess her risk. He worried about his own health, knowing that HPV is primarily transmitted sexually. His research revealed that while most HPV infections are asymptomatic and clear up on their own, persistent infections can lead to genital warts, precancerous lesions, and anal or genital cancers. The lack of recommended routine screening for HPV-related cancers in men heightened his concern.
Thu Hong, 38, was shocked by her early-stage cervical cancer diagnosis and HPV type 18 positive result. The office worker, who maintained a healthy lifestyle, was devastated. Unfamiliar with HPV and its associated diseases, she hadn't prioritized reproductive health. The word "cancer" caused her significant emotional distress, impacting her health and work.
With support from family and friends, Hong focused on treatment. Fortunately, her early diagnosis allowed for treatment that minimized the impact on her fertility. After surgery, her doctor advised regular check-ups to monitor for recurrence.
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Many people experience anxiety after being diagnosed with an HPV-related condition. Image: Vecteezy |
Many people experience anxiety after being diagnosed with an HPV-related condition. Image: Vecteezy
Doctor Nguyen Ba My Nhi, director of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, has screened numerous women for cervical cancer. Many patients seek help only after experiencing discomfort, itching, pain, or bleeding during intercourse. These often-ignored symptoms can prolong suffering and complicate treatment, sometimes leading to late-stage cancer diagnoses with reduced chances of successful treatment.
HPV-related conditions like genital warts can significantly impact a patient's physical and mental health, as well as their personal life. Genital, anal, or oral warts cause itching and discomfort. Some individuals resort to ineffective folk remedies or seek treatment at unreliable clinics, wasting time and money. Many patients are hesitant to discuss their condition due to the stigma surrounding HPV and the misconception that it indicates an unhealthy lifestyle.
According to Doctor Nhi, HPV (Human papillomavirus) is very common. This group of over 200 viral strains includes some that can cause genital warts, precancerous lesions, and cancer. The World Health Organization estimates that 8 out of 10 sexually active people will contract HPV at some point in their lives.
A 2010 analysis of 194 studies, involving over one million women with normal cytology results, estimated the global HPV prevalence at 11.7%. Another analysis of 65 studies, including 44,769 men, found that nearly one-third of men worldwide are infected with at least one genital HPV strain, with about one-fifth infected with one or more high-risk strains.
HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, including intercourse. Less commonly, it can be passed from mother to child during childbirth. Even those with only one partner can contract HPV, as it's difficult to know a partner's sexual history and current HPV status.
HPVs are classified into two groups: low-risk (types 6, 11, 42, 43, and 44) and high-risk (types 16, 18, 31, 33, 34, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, 68, and 70). Types 16 and 18 are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases.
Doctor Nhi emphasizes the importance of specialized HPV testing, along with other medical examinations, to screen for and assess cervical cancer risk. However, she notes that HPV is very common, and those infected should remain calm, avoiding panic, fear, and stigma.
Individuals should consult with specialists for guidance on screening and treatment. "The best approach is early prevention to avoid infection, costly treatments, and long-term health consequences," she advises.
Doctor Nhi highlights several preventive measures: adopting a healthy lifestyle (no smoking, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and safe sex); getting the HPV vaccine; and undergoing regular cervical cancer screenings for women aged 21-65 as recommended by healthcare professionals.
Yen Chi - Van Ha
*Names have been changed.
