HPV screening varies based on the type of cancer or condition it is linked to. Here’s a summary of screening recommendations for the six major HPV-related cancers:

Cervical Cancer – Ages 21-30: Get a Pap smear every 3 years (checks for abnormal cells on the cervix). Ages 30-65: You have a few options for regular screening:

1. Pap smear every 3 years OR

2. High-risk HPV test alone (also called “primary HPV screening”) every 5 years OR

3. Pap smear + high-risk HPV test together (called “co-testing”) every 5 years
Penile Cancer – No routine screening exists. Visual inspection and biopsy are used if lesions appear. HPV-related penile cancer is rare but more common in uncircumcised men and those with weakened immune systems.
Vaginal Cancer – No standard screening. HPV tests and Pap smears may detect precancerous changes in high-risk individuals.
Vulvar Cancer – No routine screening. Diagnosed through visual exams and biopsies if lesions or symptoms appear. HPV-related vulvar cancers are rare but can develop from precancerous lesions.
Anal Cancer – Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): You should receive a DRE during regular gynecologist visits (for people with a cervix) AND/OR at your gastroenterologist & Anal Pap Test (Anal Cytology): For high-risk individuals, you should receive an Anal Pap every year, or as advised by your provider. Read more about anal cancer screening in the International Anal Neoplasia Society’s consensus guidelines
Oropharyngeal Cancer – No formal screening tests exist. Early detection relies on dental and medical exams if symptoms like persistent sore throat, lumps, or difficulty swallowing arise.

Cervical cancer is the only HPV-related cancer with widely recommended routine screening. Other HPV-related cancers rely on symptom-based detection and clinical exams.

Downloadable HPV Cancer Screening Checklist!