Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Nearly all sexually active people will be infected with HPV at some point during their lives. Although largely asymptomatic, if left untreated, HPV can lead to other health problems including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Often, those infected with HPV do not present any signs or symptoms. It is important to be screened regularly and to take precautions to limit the risk of being exposed to the virus. Although HPV often goes away on its own without causing any health problems, it can sometimes result in genital warts or cervical cancer.
To avoid contact with the HPV virus, one should always practice safer sex and get screened for STIs.
