Book an Appointment
Woman's Health

Understanding HPV And Cervical Cancer

What is HPV?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of over 100 related viruses, some of which can cause genital warts, while others are associated with cancers such as cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.
TransmissionTypes of HPV
HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact.

HPV strains are categorized as:

  • Low-risk types (e.g., HPV 6 and 11, which cause warts).
  • High-risk types (e.g., HPV 16 and 18, which are linked to cancer).

Prevalence of HPV

Global and Singapore Statistics

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Approximately 80% of sexually active people will contract HPV at some point.

In Singapore

Studies indicate that around 9% of women in Singapore are infected with HPV, with higher prevalence in younger, sexually active populations.

Risk of Cancer

In Singapore, cervical cancer, primarily caused by HPV, is the 10th most common cancer among women. Regular screening and vaccination have helped to manage these numbers.

HPV Symptoms and Risks

Most HPV infections cause no symptoms and clear on their own. However, some can persist and lead to complications.

Common Symptoms

  • Genital Warts: Caused by low-risk HPV types; appear as small bumps in the genital area.
  • Cancer: High-risk HPV types can cause cell changes that lead to cervical, anal, throat, and other cancers over time.

Risk Factors

  • Early age of sexual debut
  • Multiple sexual partners
  • Smoking (increased risk of cervical cancer)
  • Weakened immune system

HPV Screening and Diagnosis

Book an Appointment

Cervical Cancer Screening

The Pap smear (cytology test) and HPV DNA test are recommended for women to detect abnormal cell changes.

Singapore Guidelines

  • Women aged 25-29: Pap smear every 3 years.
  • Women aged 30 and above: HPV DNA test every 5 years.

Testing for Other Cancers

For other HPV-related cancers, there is no standardized screening, but regular check-ups and vigilance for symptoms are encouraged.

Prevention and Vaccination

HPV Vaccination

The HPV vaccine protects against the most common high-risk and low-risk HPV types.

Singapore’s Recommendations

  • Girls and boys aged 9-26 are recommended to receive the HPV vaccine for maximum effectiveness.
  • The vaccine is part of the National Childhood Immunisation Programme (NCIP) and is provided free for girls aged 13 in Singapore schools.

Types of Vaccines Available

  • Gardasil 9 (covers 9 HPV types, including 6, 11, 16, and 18)
  • Cervarix (targets HPV 16 and 18)

Other Prevention Measures

Using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can reduce the risk of HPV.

Treatment Options for HPV and Related Conditions

For Genital Warts
  • Topical Treatments: Prescription creams (e.g., imiquimod) to stimulate the immune system.
  • Cryotherapy: Freezing off warts.
  • Surgical Removal: Laser or excision to remove larger warts.
  • Monitoring: Mild changes may resolve on their own, with regular follow-ups.
  • Treatment for Precancerous Changes: Procedures like Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) or cryotherapy to remove affected tissue.

For HPV-related cancers (e.g., cervical cancer), treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage.

Singapore Healthcare Resources for HPV

Subsidized Screening and Vaccination

The Singapore government provides subsidies for HPV screening and vaccination under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) and MediSave.

Public Awareness Programs

The Health Promotion Board (HPB) conducts awareness programs to promote HPV vaccination and regular cervical screening.

Specialist Care

HPV-related issues and cancers can be managed at specialized clinics, including gynecological and oncology departments in hospitals.

When Should to Seek Medical Advice

  • If you notice symptoms like unusual warts, irregular bleeding, or persistent sore throat (if at risk for HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer).
  • For advice on HPV vaccination or screening options.
  • If you have a high-risk factor profile or multiple sexual partners.
Book an Appointment

Additional
Learning Resources

  1. Health Promotion Board (HPB) Singapore
  2. Ministry of Health (MOH) Singapore
  3. Singapore Cancer Society
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Genital HPV Infection – Fact Sheet. Available at: CDC HPV Fact Sheet
  2. Health Promotion Board Singapore. (2023). Cervical Cancer Screening. Available at: HPB Singapore
  3. The Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology of Singapore (SCCPS). (2021). Guidelines for HPV Screening and Vaccination in Singapore.

Start Your Journey
to Better Health

Taking care of your health has never been easier. Fill out the form, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Contact Info

Instagram Facebook Linkedin

Sitemap

Copyright © 2026 The Good Clinic

|

Website by