Human Papilloma Virus is an important virus to be aware of, as it is the most common sexually transmitted disease. Although it is the cause of cervical cancer, which is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, few people know about this virus. With proper screening and treatment, cervical cancer can be prevented and controlled.

Surprisingly, most sexually active adults contract this virus and are never aware of it. While the immune system usually kills the virus, it can survive and cause precancerous lesions and invasive cancer. There are over 100 types of the virus, and each is specific for choosing what tissue to invade. Some remain on the soles of the feet, others on the face and finger, and others on the genital skin.

Human papilloma virus is complex, and is very easy to transmit from person to person. Although this virus can neither be treated nor easily prevented, the effects of the virus can be controlled. Therefore, regular screening should be practiced to prevent invasive cancer.