Understanding HPV: Risks and Advances

This chapter explores the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV), discussing its association with serious health issues like cervical cancer, while highlighting the importance of vaccination as a preventive measure. It delves into the history of HPV, uncovering its ancient lineage and the groundbreaking discovery linking HPV-16 to cancer in 1983, which revolutionized our understanding of viral diseases. Additionally, the chapter addresses the distinction between benign genital warts and cancer-causing strains, shedding light on the transmission dynamics and rising infection rates in contemporary society.