Human papillomavirus basically includes more than 100 viruses and these viruses result in benign tumours called papillomas along with warts. Such warts are commonly observed in regions of hands and feet and some in some forms of hpv cancer may also occur. In most cases of hpv genital warts are commonly observed.

Around 30 different hpv types can be transmitted through sexual contact and in many cases the infections and associated symptoms tend to go away even in the absence of treatment. In some cases the infection may persist for a few years and this may result in cell abnormalities. This increases the risk of women suffering from hpv cancer including cervical cancer.

In hpv cancer may occur in those cases where the hpv infection is persistently present. In fact persistent hpv infection has been identified as being primarily responsible for cases of cervical cancer. In the year 2007 research indicated that around 11000 women suffered from cervical cancer in United States. As many as 4000 women diagnosed with cervical cancer lost their lives.

Research on hpv cancer also indicates that hpv may be related to cancers such as vulva, vagina, penile and anal cancer. Oral hpv condition also results in oropharyngeal cancer in many cases. Some forms of hpv are called low risk forms as they cause lesions that do not result in cancer. Those hpv types that cause cancer are called high risk types. High risk hpv types include 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, 68, and 73.

In hpv cancer conditions the high risk varieties of virus such as 16 and 18 are responsible for causing the maximum number of cervical cancer cases. Smoking can also be an important factor that contributes towards development of cervical cancer. Cervical cells can be tested to identify high risk varieties of hpv. In a Pap test cells from the cervical region are collected and examined under a microscope. A test following an ambiguous or problematic Pap test can help identify around 13 high risk hpv viruses. Treatment of hpv cancer may include radiation, surgery or chemotherapy based on the condition of the affected individual.