When most people hear HPV, they think cervical cancer. But HPV is the most well- established virus we know that directly causes cancer, and its impact goes far beyond the cervix.

In this solo episode of The Medical Collective, Dr. Keisha Davis—triple board-certified pathologist and physician—breaks down what HPV actually is, how it causes cancer, and why prevention efforts matter now more than ever. Drawing from real-world pathology experience, this episode explains how HPV affects both women and men, the role of dysplasia and early detection, and the cancers that are often overlooked in public conversations.

Dr. Davis also addresses stigma around HPV-related cancers, including anal and head and neck cancers, discusses the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, and explains the difference between HPV testing and comprehensive medical care—especially for high-risk individuals.

Key Topics Discussed

- What HPV is and why it is the leading virus known to directly cause cancer - The percentage of cancers linked to HPV, including cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, and head and neck cancers - Low-risk vs high-risk HPV and what dysplasia means - How pathologists detect HPV and precancerous changes - The role of squamous mucosa in HPV-related cancers - Anal cancer, stigma, and who may benefit from anal Pap screening - HPV in men and why prevention matters for everyone - Head and neck cancers and rising HPV-related trends - HPV vaccine effectiveness, dosing, and current public health concerns - At-home HPV testing vs seeing a physician - Why prevention and early detection save lives

Key Facts Mentioned

- Approximately 99% of cervical cancers are HPV-related - Approximately 90% of anal cancers are HPV-related - Approximately 70% of oropharyngeal (head and neck) cancers are HPV-related

- Approximately 60% of penile cancers are HPV-related - Approximately 70% of vaginal cancers are HPV-related - The HPV vaccine is approximately 90% effective at preventing HPV-related cancers when given before exposure

Resources and References Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – HPV and Cancer: https://www.cdc.gov/hpv

National Cancer Institute – HPV and Cancer:

https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-fact-sheet

American Cancer Society – HPV-Related Cancers:

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/infectious-agents/hpv.html

Connect With Us

Dr. Keisha Davis, MD https://drkeishadavis.komi.io

The Medical Collective https://www.medical-collective.com

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