safe sex healthier skin

The link between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer is well known by now. However, a recent study from Dartmouth Medical School, published in the March 15 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, reveals that the virus is also a risk factor for skin cancer. According to researchers, those with multiple strains of HPV were 71% more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma-a common and dangerous form of skin cancer- than those without.

Experts maintained that sun exposure and sensitivity to the sun are still the main causes of skin cancer; however, the role of skin types of HPV should not be overlooked. Although experts are unsure of the exact causative link, they've discovered that the strain of Human Papillomavirus that causes non- genital warts may set the stage for cancerous mutations of the skin especially in people who are immunosuppressed or on long term steroid use.

Although there are many strains of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the most known types are sexually transmitted. Still, there are strains that spread easily without sexual contact that could lead to non-genital warts. If you are infected with HPV or have non-genital warts, especially on the arm or finger, it’s important to visit your dermatologist yearly for a full body exam.