Title : Human Papillomavirus: A Global Burden
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified the human papillomavirus (HPV) as a global burden, associated with 70% of cervical cancer cases (WHO, 2016). HPV is the principal cause of most cervical cancer cases and is the fourth most common cancer in women, worldwide. Hispanic women are both sixty percent more likely to be diagnosed with cervical cancer, and thirty percent more likely to die from cervical cancer as compared to non-Hispanic white women (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2017). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). There are over 100 varieties of HPV, more than 40 of which are passed through sexual contact and can affect the genitals, mouth, or throat. The risk factors associated with acquiring the infection are for both sexually active women and men. Policies that are currently in place are centered on the requirement of the HPV vaccine, funding the vaccine, and educating the public or school children about the vaccine. Data available suggests that globally, HPV is a major health and economic problem. Despite the progress made in a few states with policies, data suggests that there is still more work to be done.