Human papillomavirus

The human papillomavirus, or HPV, refers to a group of viruses that cause warts on the skin and the genital region. The types of HPV that cause genital warts (known as condylomata acuminata) are spread by sexual activity. Certain types of sexually transmitted HPV are also an important causal factor in cervical and anal cancers. People with damaged immune systems are at increased risk of HPV-related cancers.

This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.