HPV

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the collective name for a group of over 100 viruses, 30 of which are sexually transmitted. An HPV particle is shown in the picture to the right.  Each viral particle is surrounded by specific capsid proteins. Within the viral particle is a circle of double-stranded DNA of about 8,000 base pairs.

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The viral genome encodes for 8 genes needed early (E) and late (L) in the process of viral infection. HPV is spread during sexual activity by skin-to-skin contact and not by the exchange of bodily fluids. HPV is responsible for genital warts. Most HPV infections occur without any symptoms and go away without any treatment. But a strong link has recently been established between HPV and cervical cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that in 2007 over 11,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than 2,600 will die from this malignancy (ACS, 2006). Hispanic women develop cervical cancer twice as often as Caucasians, and African American women about 50% more often than non-Hispanic white women (ACS, 2006). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates at least 50% of sexually active men and women will contract HPV during their lifetime (ACS, 2006). In the United States each year, 6.2 million people are newly infected with HPV, and as many as half of them are aged 15-24 years (CDC, 2004).

 

Human Papillomavirus — Prevalence of High-risk and Low-risk Types Among Females Aged 14 – 59 Years, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2003 – 2006