HPV test awareness, knowledge still low

Friends, I love hearing about HPV awareness in our nation, and how great it is.  However, if only those who I see day after day with diagnosed-HPV had been as educated.

I want to stop this cycle of amazing and brilliant people getting hurt solely by not being informed.  HPV education and prevention wasn't taught in school back in the days.  So now it's up to us to share the message.  And it's up to doctor's like me to lead the pack.   Let's do this.

I got you.

-- Dr. Dale

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HPV test awareness, knowledge still low

By Shereen Jegtvig

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Americans are more aware that there is a test for the human papilloma virus (HPV) than counterparts in the UK and Australia, according to a new study, but few people knew much more than that.

"Awareness of HPV has tended to be low but has been rising since the introduction of testing and vaccination," said Jo Waller, the study's senior author.

People seem to be more aware of HPV vaccination than testing, however, which is not surprising given the publicity around the vaccine, added Waller, a public health researcher at University College London.

The Pap test, used to look for abnormal cell changes in the cervix, is much older and generally familiar to most people, but the newer HPV test looks for the virus that causes those changes, Waller said.

The HPV test was only introduced in the 1990s and it's used a little differently in each of the countries that were included in the new study, Waller pointed out.

In the U.S., HPV testing is used as a screening tool in women over the age of 30. In both the U.S. and the UK, HPV testing is also used along with the Pap test to determine the next steps in treatment - for instance, biopsy.

In the UK and Australia, the HPV test is also used to monitor treatment results.

Waller said that many studies have attempted to assess the public's knowledge about HPV and HPV testing, but they all used different methods and asked questions in different ways, so it's hard to compare the findings.

"We wanted to use the same questionnaire to look at knowledge across three countries where HPV testing is used in different ways," she told Reuters Health in an email.

The researchers used an online survey to find out if participants in the U.S., UK and Australia were aware of HPV testing and HPV in general.

The first question asked was 'Before today, had you ever heard of HPV?' Participants who responded 'yes' were then directed to 15 general questions about HPV.

Participants were then asked 'Have you ever heard of HPV testing?' Those who responded 'yes' were asked six more questions about the test.

Of the 2,409 men and women who answered the survey, about 61 percent had heard of HPV, Waller's team reports in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections.

Among those who had heard of the virus, only half were aware of the HPV test. Awareness of the HPV test was higher in the U.S. than in the UK and Australia.

The participants who had heard of HPV testing, on average, answered less than half of questions about details of testing correctly. Overall, women knew more than men.

Most of the survey participants did know, for example, that the HPV test can be done at the same time as the Pap test, and that a positive HPV test doesn't mean a woman will definitely get cervical cancer.

But they didn't know a negative HPV test indicates a low risk of cervical cancer. Few also knew that the HPV test is not an indicator of whether the HPV vaccine is needed.

"It's also important for people to understand that although the HPV vaccine protects against HPV, it's still really important for women to have screening, to check for (virus) types not covered by the vaccine," Waller said.

Women who are screened and found not to have the HPV virus should be reassured that their risk of developing cervical cancer over the next five years is extremely low, Waller added.

SOURCE: bit.ly/1aLPRNE Sexually Transmitted Infections, Online January 9, 2014.

Understanding the Link Between HPV and Anal Warts: What You Need to Know

Are you concerned about the connection between human papillomavirus (HPV) and anal warts? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the link between HPV and anal warts, as well as the importance of prevention and treatment options.

What is HPV?

HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause various health problems, including anal warts. There are over 150 types of HPV, some of which are known to cause warts on different parts of the body, such as the anus and genitals. Other HPV types are linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancer.

HPV is so common that most sexually active people will contract at least one type of the virus at some point in their lives. In many cases, the body's immune system can clear the infection on its own within a couple of years. However, some HPV infections can persist and lead to more serious health issues.

How are HPV and Anal Warts Connected?

Anal warts, also known as condyloma acuminata, are caused by specific types of HPV, particularly types 6 and 11. These warts appear as small, flesh-colored, or pink growths around the anus or in the anal canal. They can be flat or raised, single or multiple, and can vary in size.

HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual activity. As a result, people who engage in anal sex or have multiple sexual partners have a higher risk of contracting HPV and developing anal warts.

It's important to note that not everyone who has HPV will develop anal warts. In fact, many people with HPV never experience any symptoms at all. However, even without visible warts, an infected person can still transmit the virus to their sexual partners.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Anal Warts

Anal warts may cause symptoms such as itching, bleeding, or discomfort in the anal area. However, some people with anal warts may not experience any symptoms at all. A healthcare provider can diagnose anal warts through a visual examination or by performing a biopsy of the affected tissue.

In some cases, a healthcare provider may also recommend an anal Pap test, which involves collecting cells from the anal canal to screen for precancerous changes. This is particularly important for individuals who are at higher risk of developing anal cancer, such as those with a history of anal warts or HIV infection.

Treatment Options for Anal Warts

Treatment for anal warts may include topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), electrocautery (burning), or surgical removal. The choice of treatment depends on the size, location, and number of warts present. It's essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that the warts have been effectively treated and to monitor for any recurrences.

In some cases, anal warts may recur even after successful treatment. This is because the underlying HPV infection can remain dormant in the body and reactivate at a later time. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider can help catch and treat any recurrent warts early.

Preventing HPV Infection and Anal Warts

The most effective way to prevent HPV infection and the development of anal warts is through vaccination. The HPV vaccine, which is recommended for both males and females, can protect against the types of HPV that cause most cases of anal warts and HPV-related cancers.

The vaccine is most effective when given before an individual becomes sexually active and is exposed to HPV. However, even those who are already sexually active can benefit from the vaccine, as it can protect against HPV types they haven't encountered yet.

In addition to vaccination, practicing safe sex by using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission. However, it's important to remember that condoms do not provide complete protection against HPV, as the virus can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by the condom.

Regular screening for anal cancer is also crucial, particularly for individuals at higher risk. Early detection and treatment of precancerous changes can prevent the development of anal cancer.

DON'T WAIT TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT

If you suspect that you may have anal warts or are concerned about your risk of HPV infection, don't hesitate to contact me to schedule an appointment. Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing anal warts and preventing potential complications. Click here to book your appointment now.

By educating yourself about the link between HPV and anal warts, and taking proactive steps to prevent infection and detect any issues early, you can help protect your health and well-being. Don't be afraid to talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns and work together to develop a personalized prevention and treatment plan.

Anal Warts and Pregnancy: What Expectant Mothers Need to Know

Pregnancy is a time of many physical and emotional changes, and for some women, it can also be a time of heightened concern about the impact of pre-existing health conditions on their developing baby. For women who have been diagnosed with anal warts, or who have a history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, pregnancy can raise a number of questions and concerns. In this blog post, we'll explore what expectant mothers need to know about anal warts and pregnancy, including the potential risks, treatment options, and strategies for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

What Are Anal Warts?

Anal warts, also known as condyloma acuminata, are small, fleshy growths that develop in and around the anus and lower rectum. They are caused by certain strains of HPV, a highly contagious virus that is transmitted through sexual contact.

While anal warts are not typically painful, they can cause itching, discomfort, and bleeding, particularly during bowel movements. In some cases, they may also be associated with an increased risk of anal cancer, although this is relatively rare.

The Impact of Anal Warts on Pregnancy

The primary concern with anal warts during pregnancy is the potential for transmission of HPV to the baby during delivery. If a woman has active anal warts at the time of delivery, there is a small risk that the virus could be passed to the baby, potentially leading to the development of warts in the baby's throat or airways (a condition known as recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, or RRP).

However, it's important to note that the risk of HPV transmission to the baby is relatively low, occurring in less than 1% of cases. Additionally, not all babies who are exposed to HPV will develop RRP or other complications.

Another potential concern with anal warts during pregnancy is the possibility of excessive growth or bleeding due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the pelvic area. In some cases, this may require treatment to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Treatment Options for Anal Warts During Pregnancy

The treatment of anal warts during pregnancy can be challenging, as many of the standard therapies (such as topical medications and cryotherapy) are not recommended due to potential risks to the developing fetus.

In most cases, treatment of anal warts during pregnancy is limited to conservative measures, such as:

1. Keeping the area clean and dry to prevent irritation and infection

2. Using sitz baths or cold compresses to manage discomfort and inflammation

3. Wearing loose, breathable clothing to reduce friction and irritation

In severe cases where anal warts are causing significant discomfort or interfering with daily activities, a healthcare provider may recommend surgical removal using local anesthesia. However, this is typically reserved for cases where the benefits of treatment outweigh the potential risks to the pregnancy.

Strategies for a Healthy Pregnancy and Delivery

If you have a history of anal warts or HPV infection and are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, there are several steps you can take to promote a healthy pregnancy and delivery:

1. Discuss your history with your healthcare provider: Make sure to inform your obstetrician or midwife about your history of anal warts or HPV infection, so they can provide appropriate monitoring and care throughout your pregnancy.

2. Attend regular prenatal check-ups: Regular prenatal care is essential for monitoring the health of you and your baby, and for identifying any potential complications early on.

3. Consider HPV vaccination: If you have not already received the HPV vaccine, talk to your healthcare provider about whether vaccination may be appropriate before or after your pregnancy to reduce your risk of future HPV-related complications.

4. Practice safe sex: If you are sexually active during pregnancy, use condoms or other barrier methods to reduce the risk of acquiring new HPV infections or transmitting the virus to your partner.

5. Plan for a healthy delivery: Work with your healthcare team to develop a plan for a safe and healthy delivery, taking into account your individual risks and preferences. In some cases, a cesarean section may be recommended to reduce the risk of HPV transmission to the baby, particularly if you have active anal warts at the time of delivery.

PRIORITIZING YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR BABY'S HEALTH

Pregnancy can be a time of joy and excitement, but also one of uncertainty and concern, particularly for women with pre-existing health conditions like anal warts. By working closely with your healthcare team, practicing good self-care, and staying informed about your options, you can take proactive steps to promote a healthy pregnancy and delivery for you and your baby.

If you have concerns about anal warts and pregnancy, contact me today to schedule a consultation. As a gastroenterologist with expertise in anal warts and HPV-related conditions, I can provide personalized guidance and support to help you navigate this important time in your life.

Remember, prioritizing your own health and well-being is one of the best things you can do for your growing baby. With the right care and support, you can move through your pregnancy with confidence and look forward to a healthy and happy future with your new family.