Human papillomavirus
Section: LEARNING TO TEACH
Authors
1Eva Pérez Martínez, 2Elena García-Gutiérrez Conde, 2Lía Valdivieso Galardi, 2Victoria Castander Díaz, 2Tatiana Chena Morón, 2Nuria Gallardo García
Position
1 Profesora de Enfermería Obstétrico Ginecológica. 2 Alumnas de la Escuela de Enfermería. Universidad Antonio de Nebrija Madrid.
Contact email: eperezma@nebrija.es
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the cause for most cases of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer involves primarily young women, and is included in the category of sexually-transmitted infections. Main goals to approach the disease are prevention and early detection. Several aspects were reviewed and should be highlighted: definitions, epidemiology, etiology, risk factors, clinical features of HPV infections, barriers, primary and secondary prevention. The importance of primary prevention and a correct use of barrier methods are emphasized. Appropriate diagnosis and follow-up over a lifetime are important to avoid long-term consequences. Immunization has been found to be a key factor to prevent later cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. Vaccines against HPV have shown a high efficacy and a favorable safety profile. A practical recommendation should be initiating preventive measures for pre-adolescent and adolescent girls by means of education. Use of prophylactic vaccines before first sexual activity; usual and appropriate use of condoms, early detection by means of conventional cytology; and an appropriate management for cervical lesions result in a reduced HPV incidence and prevalence.
Keywords:
Human papillomavirus (HPV); cervical-uterine cancerearly detection
Versión en Español
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