Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and cervical cancer: Which STIs elevate the risk?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and cervical cancer: Which STIs elevate the risk?

In the realm of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) stands out as a significant factor in the development of cervical cancer. HPV, especially strains like HPV-16 and HPV-18, is linked to the majority of cervical cancer cases[1][3].

Other STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis do not directly cause cervical cancer but can contribute to overall reproductive health issues and increased susceptibility to infections, including HPV, which can indirectly affect cancer risk[2].

Preventive measures for cervical cancer linked to STIs primarily revolve around HPV. These include:

• HPV vaccination: A highly effective primary prevention against high-risk HPV strains that cause cervical cancer[2][3].
• Regular cervical screening: Pap smears and HPV testing to detect precancerous changes early, enabling timely treatment to prevent progression to cancer[1][3].
• Consistent and correct condom use: Reduces the risk of HPV and other STI transmission, though it does not completely eliminate HPV risk because HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom[2][5].
• Limiting number of sexual partners and safer sexual practices: Reduce exposure risk to HPV and other STIs[5].
• Smoking cessation: Smoking impairs immune response and makes clearing HPV infection more difficult, increasing cancer risk[5].

People living with HIV are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer due to a weakened immune system and a higher likelihood of persistent HPV[4]. Chlamydia can also cause inflammation in the cervix, potentially developing abnormal cells and increasing the risk of cervical cancer[4].

If a person suspects they have contracted an STI, seeking medical help at sexual health clinics is crucial. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides an online tool to help find testing locations for STIs[6].

[1] American Cancer Society. (2021). Cervical cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer.html [2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). HPV and cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/index.htm [3] World Health Organization. (2021). Human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/human-papillomavirus-(hpv)-and-cervical-cancer [4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). HIV and cancer risk. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/research/articles/hiv-cancer-risk.htm [5] American Cancer Society. (2021). Prevention and early detection of cervical cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/prevention.html [6] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Get tested for HIV, STDs, and Hepatitis. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/testing/find-a-testing-location.html

• Mental health, skin care, and women's health are crucial aspects of overall health-and-wellness, yet they often receive less attention compared to physical health.
• Regular screenings, education, and preventive measures are essential for maintaining sexual health, mental health, and men's health.
• It is vital for individuals to prioritize HPV vaccination, as it provides a primary defense against high-risk HPV strains linked to cervical cancer, skin cancer, and other health issues.
• In addition to HPV vaccination, consistent condom use, limiting sexual partners, and safer sexual practices can significantly lower the risk of contracting HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.
• Smoking cessation plays a critical role in reducing the risk of HPV-related cancers, as smoking impairs the immune system's ability to clear HPV infections.
• Those living with HIV or other medical-conditions that weaken the immune system, such as advanced mental health conditions, may be at a higher risk of developing HPV-related cancers. Seeking medical help and regular testing are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

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