Prostate and Thyroid Cancers May Be Linked to HPV: Insights for Prevention

While HPV has been directly linked to cervical and some head and neck cancers, emerging evidence suggests new associations with other types of cancers.

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Viruses play a significant role in the development of certain types of cancers. They can alter normal cell function by integrating their genetic material into human DNA, leading to mutations and disruptions in cell growth and division. This can cause uncontrolled cell proliferation, a hallmark of cancer.

Some viruses, like the human papillomavirus (HPV), are directly linked to specific cancers such as cervical and some head and neck cancers. As cancer research continuously evolves, new correlations between known viruses and various cancers are emerging.

Evolving Role of HPV

HPV is a contagious pathogen primarily transmitted through sexual contact, leading to HPV-related cancers in both genders. The vast majority of cervical cancers have a connection to HPV, and a growing body of evidence suggests a similar association with some head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancer. Additionally, a range of anogenital cancers, such as vaginal, vulvar, penile, and anal cancers, also fall under the category of malignancies associated with HPV.