Early detection and vaccinations are key in HPV-related cancer prevention

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) - A University of Virginia expert says Human Papillomavirus (HPV) strains are linked to multiple types of cancer.

Some of those cancers are cervical, vaginal, and penile.

The FDA has recently approved self-collection HPV tests which are less invasive than pelvic exams.

The expert says that the key to prevention is early detection and vaccination.

“The best thing we can do is vaccinate. So, we have this cancer prevention vaccine and the HPV vaccination,” Associate Professor of Nursing at UVA School of Nursing Emma Mitchell said. “We can use it early. It’s FDA approved down to the age of nine.”

She adds that screening is still recommended but many women will be able to catch it earlier with these tests.

Do you have a story idea? Send us your news tip here.