high-risk HPV
(hy-risk …)
A group of cancer-causing human papillomaviruses (HPV). These viruses can infect the cells on the moist surfaces or inner lining of some organs and body cavities, such as the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus, mouth, and throat. A long-lasting infection with a high-risk HPV type can cause cell changes that become cancer over time if not found and removed. High-risk HPV can cause cancers of the cervix, anus, oropharynx, vagina, vulva, and penis. There are about 12 types of high-risk HPV, but HPV types 16 and 18 cause most HPV-related cancers. High-risk HPV is transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact, most often during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Also called high-risk human papillomavirus.