Certain types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) have been linked to precancers and cancers of the vagina, vulva, and anus, in addition to their association with cervical cancer.

Vaginal cancer is rare. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimated that by the end of 2005, there would be 2,140 new cases of vaginal cancer diagnosed in the United States, and 810 women would die from the disease. Vaginal cancer develops over a period of many years.

Vulvar cancer is cancer of the vulva (the outside part of the female genitals that surrounds the opening of the vagina). The ACS estimated that in 2005, about 3,870 new cases of vulvar cancer would be diagnosed in the United States, and about 870 women would die of this cancer.

Anal cancer locates in the anus. Part of the anus is inside the body and part is outside; anal cancer can start in either of these places. Anal cancer can occur in both females and males and is fairly rare. Approximately 85% of the 44,000 cases of anal cancer worldwide are attributed to HPV, as estimated in 1999 by the World Health Organization.

Although extremely rare, another health concern related to certain types of HPV is called recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). RRP usually develops in a child born to a mother who has the HPV types that cause most genital warts. The virus passes from the mother to the child during the natural childbirth process (ie, vaginal delivery). However, a Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) study showed that incidence is very low, and most children of infected mothers will not develop RRP.

In addition, some types of HPV can also cause cancers of the mouth and throat.

Your healthcare professional can help you understand these conditions better. You can also see the list of additional resources on this site for more information.