Free HPV test: Murmansk residents advised to screen regularly

The DNA test for human papillomavirus (HPV) has become free, according to a document reviewed by TASS. Russian women aged 21 to 49 can now take it during reproductive health check-ups under the compulsory health insurance system. If the result is positive, the doctor will additionally perform a liquid-based oncocytology.

Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment and reduced mortality, Murmansk gynecologist Leonid Perekrest told 51.RU. He noted that HPV is a very common infection, most often transmitted sexually.

“Some types of the virus are oncogenic and linked to the development of cervical cancer, as well as cancer of the vulva, vagina, anal canal, oropharynx, and penis — so this is not only a «women’s» issue,” the doctor emphasized.

There are over 100 types of HPV, 14 of which are oncogenic. Types 16 and 18 account for about 70% of cervical cancer cases, which is the second most common cancer among women in developing countries. The progression from normal to cancer goes through precancerous stages that can be detected through screening.

“Regular screening (Pap test, preferably liquid-based) and, if necessary, colposcopy with biopsy allow for the detection of dysplasias and precancerous changes at early stages,” Leonid Perekrest noted.

Treatment of precancerous changes and cervical cancer is carried out through surgical methods, with tactics determined based on colposcopy and biopsy results. The doctor reminded that there is no medication that can cure HPV.

“No antivirals or immunomodulators destroy HPV or guarantee risk reduction — don’t rely on advertising. Rely on evidence-based medicine.”

An effective prevention method is vaccination. In countries with vaccination programs (for example, Australia), incidence and infection rates have significantly decreased. The vaccination schedule is three-dose: 0–2–6 months. For children aged 9–14, a two-dose schedule is possible: a baseline dose and a repeat after 6–12 months.

“Vaccination does not cause infertility. This fake news was launched after a poor-quality study appeared, which was later refuted and retracted. But it caused a lot of noise. Hundreds of millions of people have been vaccinated since 2006; no serious proven consequences for fertility have been identified. Vaccination is highly effective against the HPV types included in the vaccines,” our interviewee noted.

Earlier, the doctor explained how the polar night affects the menstrual cycle.