Reducing Riskprotect Yourself Against Infections - Chapter 3 Reducing Your Cancer Risk: Cancer

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Reducing risk-Protect yourself against infections

It's clear that some viruses can lead to cancer, especially cancers of the cervix, vagina, anus, and liver. For example, the human papilloma virus (HPV), which causes genital warts, is also a cause of cervical cancer.

One of the best ways to protect yourself from viruses that may cause cancer is to avoid sexually transmitted infections. You can do this by avoiding sex with anyone but a long-term, healthy, monogamous partner. In any other situation, use a condom.

Also important are vaccines for HPV and for hepatitis B, the viral disease that is a prominent cause of liver cancer.

The HPV vaccine is recommended by the Center for Disease Control for girls and women ages nine to 26 years old, as it protects against cervical cancer and genital warts caused by HPV. The HPV vaccine protects against some, but not all, of the HPV viruses that can cause cervical cancer. Therefore, regular Pap smears are still important.

The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all children and for high-risk adults. See that your children are vaccinated and talk with your doctor about whether you need the vaccine as well.

Last updated:	May 01, 2008