4 March 2025

Every year on 4 March, we mark HPV Awareness Day, a global initiative to increase knowledge about the human papillomavirus (HPV) and its impact on health.

HPV is one of the most common viral infections worldwide, yet misinformation and lack of awareness continue to put lives at risk.

What is HPV?

HPV is a group of viruses that affect the skin and mucous membranes. There are over 200 types, with some causing harmless warts and others linked to serious health conditions, including cervical, mouth, anal, and other cancers. High-risk HPV strains, such as HPV 16 and HPV 18, are responsible for most HPV-related cancers.

How is HPV transmitted?

HPV spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity, including oral sex. It is so common that most people will contract HPV at some point in their lives without even knowing it. While many infections clear up on their own, persistent HPV infections can lead to long-term health risks.

HPV and oral health

Beyond its well-known link to cervical cancer, HPV is a growing concern in oral health. Mouth cancer (often affecting the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils) has been rising sharply in recent years, with HPV being a leading cause. This highlights the importance of early detection, vaccination, and regular dental check-ups as part of overall health monitoring.

Prevention: the role of vaccination

The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in preventing infection. It is highly effective in protecting against the most dangerous strains of HPV and is recommended for boys and girls before they become sexually active. In the UK, the HPV vaccine is offered to adolescents aged 12 to 13, but it is also available to adults who may have missed it.

Early detection and regular check-ups

While there is no routine HPV screening for oral infections, regular dental check-ups play a key role in early detection. Dentists are trained to spot early signs of abnormalities in the mouth and throat, which can lead to earlier intervention and improved outcomes.

Breaking the stigma and raising awareness

One of the biggest barriers to HPV prevention is the stigma surrounding the virus. HPV is not a reflection of someone’s lifestyle choices – it is an infection that affects nearly everyone at some point. Open conversations, education, and widespread vaccination are essential in reducing HPV-related diseases and saving lives.

What can you do?

• Get vaccinated: If you or your child haven’t received the HPV vaccine, speak to your GP about getting protected.

• Attend regular check-ups: Whether it’s your dentist, GP, or gynaecologist, routine health visits can help detect any early signs of HPV-related conditions.

• Talk about it: Educate yourself and others about HPV. The more we talk about it, the more we can break the stigma and encourage prevention.

On HPV Awareness Day, let’s work together to spread knowledge, support prevention, and advocate for a future where HPV-related diseases are a thing of the past.

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More Information

• HPV
• Mouth cancer: how to spot the signs