Studies have shown that young adults engaging in new sexual relationships have a fifty-fifty chance of being infected with the human papillomavirus, or HPV. The research conducted by the McGill University showed that 56 percent of new young couples had the virus, with 44 percent having the form of HPV which can cause cancer.
A sexually transmitted disease, HPV can be passed between partners via both vaginal and anal sex, as well as oral and genital to genital contact. It is thought that around six million people become infected with the disease annually, and there are many forms of this virus to contend with. Many of these varieties can lead to genital warts, but more worryingly some can cause cervical cancer.
The study conducted by McGill University offers critical information about the HPV disease – this is the first large-scale study which has shown that new couples, in the first six months of a relationship, house the most prime period in which this infection is likely to be transmitted. The study is still on-going, where all individuals involved complete a questionnaire highlighting their sexual past as well as providing samples which are tested for HPV.
In 42 percent of cases, both individuals in a couple were infected with HPV. Researchers have stated that the results build on previous knowledge gleaned from prior studies, showing that this STD is extremely common amongst young people. It also highlights the importance of preventing the spread of HPV, in order to stave off diseases such as cervical cancer.
There are two vaccines available for girls and women, which can help protect against cervical cancer and prevent genital warts as well. The research gathered during the study will help to build an effective prevention programme and help to limit the number of cases of HPV being transmitted in new and old relationships alike.
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