Free, independent CPD for Irish nurses by Irish nurses

Human papillomavirus (HPV) and its clinical implications

By

• Prof Cara Martin

Reviewed by: Dawn O'Shea

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About this Module

In this podcast-based CPD module, host Dawn O’Shea is joined by Prof Cara Martin, Associate Professor in Molecular Pathology, Tumour Biology and Cancer Screening at Trinity College Dublin, to take an in-depth look at human papillomavirus (HPV) and its clinical implications.

Prof Martin explores the evolving understanding of HPV, its role in cancer development, and the major advances in vaccination and screening that are transforming cancer prevention in Ireland and internationally. The discussion highlights where we are now, what clinicians need to know, and how collective action can help move towards cancer elimination.

Five key takeaways:

1. HPV Is Extremely Common but Usually Transient:
   Up to 80–90 per cent of people will acquire HPV at some point in their lives, with most infections clearing naturally within 12–15 months without causing symptoms or disease.
2. HPV Causes Multiple Cancers in Both Women and Men:
   While cervical cancer is the most recognised HPV-related malignancy, HPV is also responsible for anal, oropharyngeal, penile, vulval, and vaginal cancers—over 30 per cent of HPV-associated cancers in Ireland occur in men.
3. Vaccination Is Driving Cancer Elimination:
   Countries with early HPV vaccine uptake are reporting near-elimination of cervical cancer. In Ireland, early data already show significant reductions in pre-cancerous cervical disease among vaccinated cohorts.
4. HPV-Positive Cancers Have Better Outcomes:
   HPV-driven cancers tend to respond better to radiotherapy and chemotherapy and have a more favourable prognosis compared with HPV-negative cancers, which are often linked to smoking and alcohol exposure.
5. Clinicians Play a Key Role in Prevention:
   Trusted conversations with patients about HPV vaccination and screening remain one of the most effective ways to combat misinformation, reduce vaccine hesitancy, and improve uptake—particularly among boys and high-risk groups.

This module provides essential clinical context, practical insights, and a clear public health message: HPV-related cancers are largely preventable, and continued engagement with vaccination and screening programmes is critical to reducing cancer burden.

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