Daijiworld Media Network - Lucknow

Lucknow, Jan 31: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is no longer considered a women-only health issue, as the virus is responsible for at least 10 different types of cancers affecting both men and women, including throat and penile cancers, experts said on Friday.

Speaking at a seminar titled “Cervical Cancer – Empower the Storytellers”, experts noted that the term “cervical cancer” is increasingly being replaced by “HPV-related cancers” to reflect the wider impact of the virus.

Prof Indu Lata from SGPGIMS said HPV infection remains a major cause of cancer-related deaths among women but stressed that men are also significantly affected. “HPV infection is a major cause of cancer deaths among women, but it also affects men,” she said.

The seminar, supported by SGPGIMS, CDRI, Serum Institute of India and Maharaja Bijli Pasi Government PG College, witnessed participation from over 500 students, mostly girls. It was organised by Children Unbound Foundation in association with Stree Welfare Foundation, with a focus on spreading awareness about HPV and its link to multiple cancers.