Estimated 15% of Ticos Carry Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known as one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases, affecting both men and women and the estimates are that 15% of the Costa Rican population is infected.  Many are unaware of their condition.

There are over 100 different strains of the virus. Of these, 20 can cause cancer.   This is also the virus responsible for genital warts.

San Jose Gynecologist, Kenneth Loaiciga, stated that anyone can be a potential carrier and unaware.

20 million people in the United States are estimated to be infected. With an average of 6 million infections per year, the illness is so common that an estimated 50% of sexually active men and women have suffered it at some point in their lives.

The virus has been shown to affect many parts of the body, including the vulva, anus, penis, pro pharynx , larynx,  and cancer of the esophagus .  98% of all cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV.