Dr. Chris Aminarh Delves into the Stealth Nature of HPV

Dr. Chris Aminarh Delves into the Stealth Nature of HPV
Dr. Chris Aminarh
Dr. Chris Aminarh's insights into Human Papillomavirus (HPV) during discussions on the Big Conversation reveal a critical aspect of HPV and its ability to remain symptomless, thus making individuals silent carriers of potential cancer-causing agents. Many people infected with HPV, particularly the high-risk strains like 16 and 18, do not show immediate symptoms. This asymptomatic phase can last for years, during which the virus can be transmitted to sexual partners without anyone realizing it.One of the more visible signs of HPV infection can be the development of genital warts, but these occur in only a subset of infections. Even when warts do appear, they might be confused with other skin conditions, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment. Still speaking on the disease, Dr. Aminarh revealed that HPV can have a long latency period. Symptoms might not become apparent until months or even years after infection, making it challenging to link an infection to a particular sexual encounter.

Without symptoms, individuals can unknowingly spread HPV through any form of sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. This is particularly concerning because even those who have never experienced visible symptoms can still be carriers. As highlighted by Dr. Aminarh, oral sexual activity with an HPV carrier can lead to oropharyngeal cancer, with no immediate signs until potentially cancerous changes have occurred. Pap smears for women and potentially HPV tests for both sexes are crucial for early detection. For those engaging in oral sex, there isn't a routine screening for HPV in the throat, but doctors might recommend an examination if there's a history of multiple partners or known HPV exposure. HPV diagnosis often involves looking for visible signs, like warts, or through molecular tests that detect the virus's DNA or RNA in samples from the cervix, anus, or throat. Physicians play a significant role in diagnosing HPV, especially since over-the-counter treatments for supposed skin issues might not address the underlying viral infection and could exacerbate the condition.

For those diagnosed with HPV, treatment depends on whether there are warts, precancerous changes, or cancer. Options include treatments like imiquimod, podophyllin, or cryotherapy.
More severe cases might require procedures to remove precancerous or cancerous tissue.


    Even after treatment for warts or precancerous lesions, individuals need ongoing monitoring since HPV can remain dormant and reactivate.
    While symptoms can be treated, there's no cure for the virus itself. The immune system might clear the infection over time, but this isn't guaranteed.

    Vaccines against HPV are pivotal, offering protection against the strains most likely to cause cancer and warts. Vaccination before sexual debut is advocated, but it's beneficial at any age for those not previously exposed to the virus.

    Public education about HPV's stealth nature is essential. Understanding the risks can lead to better health-seeking behaviors, like regular check-ups and the use of barriers during sexual activity.

    Dr. Aminarh's discussion underscores the need for open, non-stigmatizing conversations about sexual health to promote early detection and prevention of HPV-related diseases.


    This silent carrier aspect of HPV necessitates a proactive approach to sexual health, where regular medical check-ups, awareness, and preventive vaccinations become part of routine health maintenance.

    Comments

    More From 3Music News

    Tems Joins Ownership Group As Club Partner In MLS Soccer Team

    Tems Joins Ownership Group As Club Partner In MLS Soccer Team

    Award-winning Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems has officially joined Major League Soccer’s San Diego FC as a Club Partner

    Efya Announces New Song, RADAR

    Efya Announces New Song, RADAR

    Ghanaian singer-songwriter Efya has officially announced the release of her first single for 2025, titled RADAR, set to drop on February 28th

    Cina Soul Announces Debut Album, Teases Star-Studded Features

    Cina Soul Announces Debut Album, Teases Star-Studded Features

    Ghanaian singer-songwriter Cina Soul has officially announced her debut album, set to be her most personal and ambitious project yet

    Adekunle Gold Releases First Single Of The Year, OBIMO

    Adekunle Gold Releases First Single Of The Year, OBIMO

    Nigerian singer-songwriter Adekunle Gold has released his first single of 2025, titled OBIMO, on February 12th. The track, whose title translates to “my heart” in Igbo, is a heartfelt celebration of love, blending Afrobeats, Amapiano, and R&B elements

    Mr. Drew Officially Unveils LOVER BOY ERA EP

    Mr. Drew Officially Unveils LOVER BOY ERA EP

    Ghanaian singer and songwriter Mr. Drew has officially released his highly anticipated LOVER BOY ERA EP, a six-track project that showcases his signature blend of Afrobeats, highlife, and R&B influences

    Jackie Appiah Earns Masters Degree In Communication From The University Of Ghana

    Jackie Appiah Earns Masters Degree In Communication From The University Of Ghana

    Renowned Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah arrived at the University of Ghana to participate in the graduation ceremony for graduate students, marking a significant academic milestone in her career

    Coco Jones Announces Release Date For Her Upcoming Song, TASTE

    Coco Jones Announces Release Date For Her Upcoming Song, TASTE

    Rising R&B star Coco Jones has officially announced the release date for her anticipated single, TASTE set to debut on Friday, February 21st, 2025

    Sarkodie, BeezTrap KOTM And Kwesi Arthur Team Up For New Song, BANG BANG BANG

    Sarkodie, BeezTrap KOTM And Kwesi Arthur Team Up For New Song, BANG BANG BANG

    Ghanaian rap heavyweights Sarkodie, Beeztrap KOTM, and Kwesi Arthur are set to release their collaborative single, BANG BANG BANG, on February 19th, 2025. The announcement has generated significant excitement within the Ghanaian music community

    Google Has Updated It’s Map To Display The Name GULF OF AMERICA

    Google Has Updated It’s Map To Display The Name GULF OF AMERICA

    In a recent update, Google Maps has renamed the GULF OF MEXICO to the GULF OF AMERICA for users in the United States, following an executive order by President Donald Trump

    Kel-P and Wande Coal Release Music Video For OLD SOLDIER

    Kel-P and Wande Coal Release Music Video For OLD SOLDIER

    Nigerian Afrobeats luminaries Kel-P and Wande Coal have unveiled the official music video for their collaborative track, OLD SOLDIER

    Rema Announces HE IS World Tour Dates

    Rema Announces HE IS World Tour Dates

    Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema has announced his highly anticipated HE IS World Tour, set to commence on April 11th, 2025, at the Edmonton Expo Centre in Canada

    The Weeknd’s Latest Album, HURRY UP Tomorrow Has Sold Over 490,000 Copies In One Week

    The Weeknd’s Latest Album, HURRY UP Tomorrow Has Sold Over 490,000 Copies In One Week

    The Weeknd’s latest album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, has achieved remarkable success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. This marks his fifth album to reach the top position

    More Similar Videos

    No similar videos to show related to this post. Explore other sections.