Is There a Connection Between Genital Warts and Cancer?
When considering sexually transmitted diseases, it is important not to overlook the connection between genital warts and cancer. While it is true that genital warts are no more potentially cancerous than one you may have on your finger or toe, genital warts are often caused by the same virus that is linked to cervical and other types of cancer in women, as well as penile cancer in men. In addition, genital warts and cancer are possible in the neck and head region of both genders, as a result of varying strains of the human papillomavirus.
Human Papillomavirus:
No, genital warts may not be the reason for cancerous tissue developing in a young woman; however, genital warts and cancer are connected through the human papillomavirus. This virus is transmitted during sexual intercourse and can result in the development of warts. Unlike the warts that are found on extremities, genital warts can form clusters of warts anywhere in and around the genital area to include the anus and its surrounding tissues.
When the human papillomavirus strikes in other ways; however, the patient may find herself wishing that this genital warts and cancer causing virus had left her with the warts instead. When a woman is infected with either the human papillomavirus 16 or 18, the end result could be devastating. This is because these two strains have been found to be much more virulent. In fact, it is these two strains that are most commonly found in cases of cervical cancer and extreme dysplasia of the cervix.
Dysplasia of the cervix is one of the earliest signs of cancer, and is likely occurring due to having engaged in sexual intercourse with an infected partner. Therefore, one of the most obvious ways to avoid genital warts and cancer is to abstain from sexual activity at least until you and your partner can be tested for this and other sexually transmitted diseases. Yes! Asking a partner can be embarrassing and difficult, but the potential alternatives, like genital warts and cancer, are potentially more difficult to live with. That is, of course, assuming you get to live with it at all.
In addition to abstinence, there is a newly developed drug on the market that protects women against four strains of the genital warts and cancer-causing virus. This protection does include the known those, like HPV- 16/18, that cause cervical cancer in women. This vaccine, however effective, does not protect against all strains; therefore, educated decisions regarding sexual activity are still a must.