Human papilloma virus on rise locally
CMH offers prevention tips and vaccine
(Hudson, NY - February 16, 2007 ) – According to physicians at Columbia Memorial's Women's Health Center, Human papilloma virus (HPV), one of the most common causes of sexually transmitted disease (STD), is on the rise in Columbia County and in the nation. "This is an alarming trend given that certain strains can cause pre-cancerous cells that lead to cervical cancer", according to Dr. Edward Marici, DO, an obstetrician gynecologist with the Women's Health Center. Ninety percent of people who are sexually active have some strains of HPV.
"Several types of HPV can lead to genital warts, the most recognizable sign of genital HPV infection", says Marici. However, HPV infection often does not cause visible symptoms.
According to Stephen Menkes, MD, a gynecologist with the Women's Health Center, many of the women infected with HPV have no obvious symptoms. Infected persons may not be aware of their infection and hence the potential risk of transmission to others and of developing complications.
However, effective treatment is available. The Federal Drug Administration has approved a vaccine for people ages 9-26 that can decrease the incidence of HPV and the resultant cancers. "This vaccine is recommended for ages 11-26 and we are using it here at Columbia Memorial", says Marici.
According to other physicians at the Women's Health Center, the incidence of HPV is closely related to factors such as multiple partners and practicing unsafe sex.
As part of its prevention program, the hospital's Women's Health Center offers a counseling program to educate people on the incidence of the disease, its complications and ways to treat it if one becomes infected. They also strongly suggest that women stop smoking since there is now clear data indicating a connection between smoking and advances of cervical cancer.
"Taking certain vitamins, such as folic acid, is also suggested", says Marici.
"Of course, the most important thing to do is to have regular Pap smears, and if indicated, a colposcopy, to determine if there is any cervical dysplasia or other cell indications that show the potential for cervical cancer. If indicated, a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) can be done in the ambulatory surgery department at the hospital. This treatment of the abnormal area is important to prevent the cells from developing into cervical cancer".
"The technique we use allows us to send tissue to the lab for further evaluation which insures that the lesion was completely removed, as well as allowing for a more accurate assessment of the abnormal cells," asserts Marici.
For more information about sexually transmitted diseases and HPV and for consultations, call the Women's Health Center at 518-828-1400.
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