HPV and Associated Diseases: Types, Symptoms & Prevention

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can infect the skin and mucous membranes. There are over 100 different types of HPV, and some of them can cause a variety of diseases, including:

* Warts: Warts are small, fleshy growths that can appear on the skin. They are caused by HPV types 1, 2, 4, and 7.

* Plantar warts: Plantar warts are warts that grow on the soles of the feet. They are caused by HPV types 1 and 2.

* Genital warts: Genital warts are warts that grow on the genitals. They are caused by HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18.

* Cervical cancer: Cervical cancer is a cancer of the cervix, which is the opening to the uterus. It is caused by HPV types 16 and 18.

* Vaginal cancer: Vaginal cancer is a cancer of the vagina. It is caused by HPV types 16 and 18.

* Vulvar cancer: Vulvar cancer is a cancer of the vulva, which is the external female genitalia. It is caused by HPV types 16 and 18.

* Oropharyngeal cancer: Oropharyngeal cancer is a cancer of the throat, specifically the tonsils and base of the tongue. It is caused by HPV types 16 and 18.

HPV is a very common virus, and most people will get it at some point in their lives. However, only a small percentage of people will develop any of the diseases associated with HPV.