Genital warts and human papillomavirus: guidance, data and analysis
The epidemiology, management and prevention of genital warts and human papillomavirus (HPV).
Genital warts are the most common viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosed in the UK. Genital warts are found on or around the penis, anus or vagina. Genital warts are largely caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).
More information on genital warts is available on NHS.UK.
HPV types associated with cancer are called oncogenic or ‘high risk’ types. HPV types that do not cause cancer are termed ‘low risk’. Two of these ‘low risk’ types cause the majority of genital warts.
HPV infections are extremely common in the sexually active population and are particularly common in the first few years after onset of sexual activity: most infections resolve without causing any symptoms.
Epidemiology
Public Health England (PHE) routinely collects data on STIs (including genital warts) from genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics.
The Sexual and Reproductive Health Profiles are presented as interactive maps, charts, and tables designed to support local authorities, public health leads and other interested parties to monitor the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of their population and the contribution of local public health related systems.
PHE also undertakes surveillance to inform the design, implementation and evaluation of HPV vaccination. This includes assessing the impact on:
- HPV infections among young women
- HPV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM)
- diagnoses of genital warts
- incidence of cervical disease
Protection of personal information and data.
Post-immunisation monitoring of HPV vaccine-induced seroprevalence in England 2010-2013
Diagnosis, management and treatment
The British Association for Sexual Health and HIV produces guidelines on diagnosis, management and treatment of genital warts.
Prevention
HPV vaccines protect against the 2 high risk HPV types which cause the majority of cervical cancer. One vaccine also protects against the 2 low risk HPV types that cause the majority of genital warts. Both vaccines are prophylactic, meaning they should be given prior to HPV infection.
Cervical screening can detect changes in the cervix and cervical cancers at early asymptomatic stages when they can be successfully treated.
There is guidance for commissioners of HIV, sexual and reproductive health services.
Updates to this page
Last updated 7 October 2016 + show all updates
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HPR 10(34) seroprevalence report added under epidemiology.
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First published.