Is the human papilloma virus vaccine a good investment

Abstract

More than 100 different HPV genotypes have been recognised and classified into low and high risk. The latter are responsible for a number of anogenital malignancies in both genders. For example, persistent genital infection with HPV 16 or 18, in association with various cofactors (i.e. prolonged Pill use, multiparity, smoking, co-infection with other STIs, etc.), causes cervical cancer 20 to 30 years later. This long latency period, between exposure and disease development, allows for screening to detect precancerous abnormalities. In contrast, the low risk genotypes are mainly associated with benign conditions. For example, HPV 6 and 11 cause genital warts (Condylomata acuminata).