HPV & Cervical Cancer

Will HPV lead to cervical cancer?

Some types of HPV are linked to abnormal cell changes on the cervix which increases the risk of developing cervical cancer. However, only a very small number of people with HPV infection are at risk of cervical abnormalities or cervical cancer. HPV is a common infection and is often cleared by our own immune system.

The types of HPV linked to cervical cancer are not usually the same types of HPV that cause genital warts. Any person with a cervix who has even been sexually active should have regular cervical screening as advised by health professionals.

HPV vaccination and having regular cervical screening are the best safeguards against developing cervical cancer. 

The primary test for cervical screening in Aotearoa is an HPV test. This test is a screening tool which looks for specific, high-risk HPV types and helps identify those at a higher risk of cervical cancer at an early stage. Cancer almost always can be prevented through the early detection and treatment of abnormal cervical tissue.