GENITAL WARTS AND HPV
People don't like to think about HPV, let alone talk about it. Genital Warts are caused by an HPV infection (a virus). Among gay and bisexual men, more than half of HIV-negative men and 90 percent of HIV-positive men carry HPV. Most don't even know they have it. And if you've ever had HPV, your risk for developing colorectal cancer is greatly increased.
HPV spreads between sexual partners during close skin-to-skin contact. Penetration isn't necessary and condoms may not provide enough protection. HPV can infect the anal and genital region, causing genital warts or pre-cancerous growths that can lead to anal and cervical cancer.
But HPV and genital warts can be treated. Enhanced screening, diagnosis, and treatment of HPV and warts in the pre-cancerous stage can prevent and possibly arrest progression of the disease.
YOU CAN PROTECT YOUR HEALTH WITH EARLY DETECTION AND TREATMENT OF HPV.
- if you are a man who has sex with men, find an LGBT-friendly health care provider with whom you can talk openly.
- Talk to your doctor about getting an anal Pap smear. It's simple and painless.Information on anal Pap smears is available online at www.gayhealth.com.
- It is recommended that HIV-negative men who have sex with men be screened for HPV every two or three years.
- HIV positive men should be screened every year.
- Women and transmen over 18 should have a gynecological exam at least every three years, including a Pap smear, more often for those with multiple sexual partners or other risk factors.
take charge of your health. you can protect yourself against HPV and genital warts.
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