Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
What is HPV?
HPV is a group of more than 150 related viruses. Each HPV virus in this group is given a number which is called its HPV type.
HPV is the cause of 99% of all cases of cervical cancer. In South African women cervical cancer is responsible for the most cancer-related deaths and is the second commonest cancer after breast cancer.
An HPV infection also causes cancer of the vagina and vulva in women and in men it is responsible for some cases of penile cancer. Men and women can get cancer of the mouth/ throat, and anus/rectum from the virus.
HPV is transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. HPV is so common that nearly all men and women get it at some point in their lives. HPV can be passed even when an infected person has no signs or symptoms.
HPV Testing and The Pap Test
Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV infection. Persistent HPV infection in cells of the cervix causes precancerous cellular changes and in some cases, these changes result in cancer.
HPV testing looks for the presence of HPV DNA in the cervical cells. The Pap test looks only for abnormal cervical cells (in most cases these abnormal changes are caused by HPV).
Recent important studies have shown that HPV testing can detect precancerous changes of the cervix earlier and more accurately than the Pap test.
HPV Testing from Home
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Order your HPV home test online. Free shipping included. |
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You will receive your test kit in an unmarked, plain envelope. |
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Perform the sample collection discreetly at home. |
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Drop-off the sample at your closest laboratory. |
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Our doctors will contact you with your results and explain the next steps. |
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