HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

Common, Preventable, and Detectable

HPV causes most cervical, anal, penile, head and neck cancers.

Approximately 75% of sexually active Canadians who aren’t vaccinated against HPV will contract it in their lifetime.

Up to 70% of new head and neck cancers are linked to HPV, occurring more often in men.

Prevention Strategies

Combining strategies can reduce your risk of developing HPV related cancers. 

Get Vaccinated

HPV vaccines can prevent 90 to 100% of new infections. 

The vaccine protects against HPV strains that can cause: 

• cancer and 
• genital warts 

The HPV vaccine is available to all CAF members.

Speak to your primary care provider or community health staff to request the vaccine. 

Continue Cervical Cancer Screening

Screening is key to reducing your risk of developing cervical cancer. 

Get screened regularly even if you've been vaccinated. 

Vaccination protects against some high-risk strains, but not all strains.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking reduces your body's ability to get rid of the virus.

Quitting smoking can help reduce the chance of a persistent HPV infection. 

Use Barrier Protection

HPV is spread through close skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.

Condoms and dental dams can help to reduce transmission of the virus. 

Get Regular Dental Exams

Some throat cancers are caused by HPV.

Dentists routinely screen for oral or throat cancer.