HPV and cervical cancer: what the evidence says today
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is extremely common. Most sexually active people will encounter it at some point. In most cases, the immune system clears the virus without symptoms within one or two years.
Risk arises when a high-risk infection persists for years. It can gradually cause cellular changes in the cervix that may eventually develop into cancer if they are not detected and followed.
Why is this so important?
Almost all cervical cancer cases are associated with persistent HPV infection. Unlike many cancers, cervical cancer can be prevented very effectively with tools already available.
Two tools that make the difference
- Vaccination. It protects against HPV types with the greatest cancer-causing potential and works best before sexual debut, although it may also benefit older age groups.
- Cytology and HPV testing. These routine tests detect cellular changes or the virus long before they become a serious problem. An abnormal result does not mean cancer; it means follow-up is needed.
Colombia's national cervical-screening schedule
The following age-based schedule corresponds specifically to Colombia's national guideline (December 2023). It should not be interpreted as a universal international schedule; recommendations differ by country and individual clinical history.
- Ages 25–29: cervical cytology every 3 years (1-3-3 schedule).
- Ages 30–65: HPV DNA testing every 5 years (1-5-5 schedule).
- Hard-to-reach areas, ages 30–50: visual inspection every 3 years.
About stigma
Having HPV says nothing about a person's number of partners or behavior. It is an extremely common skin-to-skin infection, and most people never know they had it.
What you can do today
Ask about vaccination if you have not received it. If you have a cervix and are sexually active, follow the screening schedule recommended by your clinician and your country's guidelines. Ask for timely explanation and follow-up of any result you do not understand.
HPV also affects men
HPV prevention is not limited to cervical cancer. Read HPV in men: what global evidence shows.
This article provides general educational information and does not replace an individual medical assessment.