What is it?

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is spread via sexual activity. Nearly 40 million people in the United States are infected with HPV.

HPV can cause three different types of diseases, mostly in or around the genital area:

	Warts: HPV can cause warts—small, raised, hard lumps that grow in clumps—to form in or around the vagina, anus, or the tip of the penis. Genital warts are sometimes called condylomata acuminata, or condylomas. Warts do not usually progress to cancer, but they can mean that pre-cancerous dysplasia is also present and should be looked for.
	Dysplasia: Abnormal patches of cells found inside the anus or within the cervix (located at the lower end of the uterus, or womb), vagina and vulva (the labia and outer portion of the vagina). Unlike warts, dysplasia can't be felt or easily seen. Dysplasia is often referred to as a "pre-cancer" form of disease. Not all men or women with dysplasia go on to develop cancer.
	Cancer (carcinoma): Dysplasia can develop into cancer. The four most common types of cancer caused by HPV are cervical cancer, anal cancer, rectal cancer, and penile cancer. If not diagnosed and treated early, these forms of cancer can be life-threatening.

HIV-positive people are more likely to be infected with HPV than HIV-negative people. HIV+ people are also more likely to develop genital warts, as well as cervical or anal cancer, as a result of HPV. Researchers don't yet know if anti-HIV drugs will help reduce the number of new cases of genital warts or anal or cervical cancers. In fact, some researchers speculate that, because anti-HIV drugs have been successful in keeping HIV-positive people alive longer, the risk of developing genital warts or cancer might increase.

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