Human Papillomavirus

Abstract

This paper focuses Human Papillomavirus (HPV) as an epidemic in this world. In this generation, sexually transmitted disease (STD) has been a prevalence in this world. There are people in the streets infected with other STD’s such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Syphillis, and others. Students in school could also be infected with disease. It is such a huge epidemic in this world. HPV has been one of the world’s most dangerous disease. Vaccines have been created to prevent people from acquiring this disease.

Thesis statement is: Due to the high incidence and prevalence rate of HPV infection, the healthcare system of our country should provide vaccination for boys and girls prior to infection of the virus, as well as give them free Sex Education on HPV.

Introduction

Sexually Transmitted diseases (STDs) an extreme epidemic. Many people, male or female, can easily contract STDs. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common STDs. HPV can be transmitted sexually. It can also be developed from cervical cancers, as well as head and neck cancers, penile cancers, and vulva and vagina cancer. Currently known co-factors associated with cervical cancer development are cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, micronutrients deficiency in fruits and vegetables, multiparity, prolonged used of oral contraception, uncircumcised male partner, infection with HIV/AIDS or other STIs including herpes simplex and Chlamydia trachomatis, and low socioeconomic status (SES). Other factors such as stressful lifestyle and also self-associated stress also play a role in the risk for cervical disease. Violence such as childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, rape, or forced sexual experiences can also increase the risk of contracting HPV. (Brankovic et al, 2013, p. 1).

There are many signs and symptoms of HPV. Usually, the cells affected by HPV would be asymptomatic and the immune system would fight HPV for up to 2 years until the cell becomes normal. Visible genital warts will appear within weeks, months, or even years after sexual contact with an infected HPV patient. There will be pink and brown coloured lesions that appears as a single or multiple bumps. Some may even be flat or raised or look like a cauliflower. Genital warts are usually painless, but sometimes they can itch, burn, or cause discomfort. Visible warts gives psychological effects such as making someone more embarrassed, low self-esteem, or more depressed (Bellia-Weiss et al, 2013, para. 3). Prevention is very important as it is better to protect ourselves from the start first before it is too late.

Currently, there are two vaccines identified as Gardasil® (Merck & Co, Inc. Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA), which is referred to as the quadrivalent vaccine, and Cervarix® (GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals, Rixensart,