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The Human Papilloma virus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). An estimated 24 million people in the United States are infected with HPV. Every year, approximately 20,000 women from different cultures and geographic locations, all races, and various socially economic conditions are diagnosed with the Human Papilloma virus (HPV). The disparity is evident in the numbers. Less than one percent diagnosed. How many misdiagnosed? What is more tragic is that 76 percent of women have no concept of HPV and 70 percent are unaware of the link between certain types of HPV and cervical cancer. Furthermore, fewer than half of clinicians responding to a Center for Disease Control (CDC) survey were unaware of differences between “high-risk” and “low risk” HPV types.
There are over 100 types of HPV. Certain types cause genital warts. Certain types are directly linked to dysplasia which is abnormal cell changes in the vulvar and cervix area of the vagina, if not detected - causes cervical cancer. Early detection, (annual PAP and HPV Test – ASK YOUR DOCTOR), and treatment of the abnormal cell changes in the vulvar and/or cervix could eliminate a life of medical challenges and/or death. New research and treatments are being explored to better diagnose and eliminate HPV once contracted.
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