How wart virus (HPV) is associated with heart problems

Human papilloma virus infection (HPV), i.e. the one causing them, is likely to increase mortality due to atherosclerosis. This concluded a study recently published in the European Heart Journal. Its findings are added to other data linking HPV, as are other viruses, with a high number of deaths from cardiovascular disease, and with a higher risk of non-lethal events. It is the obese who are most at risk, according to the study. “To date we know that some subtypes of the comparable virus can cause acute warts, which are likely to develop into cancer not only of the cervical but also of other organs such as vagina, penis and mouth. To avoid this evolution we have the means to identify the subtypes and to treat the damage they cause. We also have at our disposal vaccines that minimise the chances of infection by 9 dangerous strains of the virus, without this being the only ones that can cause cancer. Research into the effects that HPV infection may have on other organs, such as the heart. Although it is in early stages and major studies are required, the findings show that once it enters the organism it can be detected at other points, such as attheromatic plates and destabilize them. Although they still have a lot to solve, the sure thing is that prevention saves lives,” notes Dermatologist – Afrodisiologist Dr. Christos Stamos. Atherotic plaques are gradually created by the accumulation of lipids, inflammatory cells and thrombogen agents on the walls of the middle and large arteries. They prevent normal blood flow, increasing their potential for rupture, brain, heart attack or arrest. Infections have entered the researchers’ microscope as possible risk factors for atherosclerosis for many decades. In addition to wart virus (HPV), other viruses, such as cytomegalovirus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been incriminated. Scientists turned to viruses as they cannot justify why atherosclerosis remains the main cause of death worldwide, despite progress in controlling risk factors. The findings of the study published in the European Heart Journal provide strong evidence that viruses burden atherosclerosis. A survey was carried out on 163,250 Korean women without atherosclerosis, who were watched for 17 years. Almost 10% of these were positive for wart virus. During the follow-up, a total of 134 cardiovascular deaths occurred, 16% of which occurred in women with HPV. Researchers took into account other factors that could increase the risk of atherosclerosis and found that the correlation remained strong. Obesity was a negative factor, since it increased mortality from cardiovascular problems in women with HPV. Scientists do not know the mechanisms through which the risk arises. Probably the virus that causes warts to invade the atherotic plates, thus causing their growth and/or incompetence, support some who have reported detection of HPV DNA and protein in coronary arteries with plaque. There is also the thought that HPV infection causes systemic inflammatory reaction that exacerbates atherosclerosis and promotes plaque instability. But everything is still under investigation. “This study and others like it make it more imperative to avoid infection by this virus. Protecting him has multiple benefits. Starting with the simplest and less dangerous, effective prevention prevents the appearance of warts on the hands, legs and face. The so-called forts (forts) are completely benign and transmitted by direct or indirect skin contact (e.g. sharing of objects, such as footwear or towels) in places where there is discontinuity of the skin (squeaking, skins etc.), as is also the case with nipples and sharp warts. Those that appear exclusively on the legs (Verruca Plantaris) are flat, hard and resemble calluses. They are extremely disturbing because they cause pain and prevent walking, especially when they are between the fingers. The ants that appear in the hands (Verruca Vulgaris) are small, harsh, fleshy, granular nodules in the color of the flesh, white, pink or darker, while those that appear in the face (Verruca Plana) are smaller lesions and softer. There are other rarer species. The most modern treatment method of ants is the dioxide laser, which can even in a session relieve the patient of them. Alternatively, cryotherapy can be used, i.e. the application of liquid nitrogen to the damage. The disadvantage of this method is that more than one application is required and the advantage that it can be used as a treatment in both facial ants, since it leaves no signs. Another option is interthermocoagulation, which by using electricity is removed the ant and cauterized its root. Those over 50 years of age are more likely to have developed nipples on the skin due to wart virus infection. These small, round, painless extensions associated with the skin through a thin stem are often confused with moles. And for these, the most appropriate method of treatment is laser depletion, which in addition to its excellent aesthetic result, significantly reduces the risk of relapse. Finally, protection against HPV subtypes that cause acute warts (the ones that occur in the mucous membranes) is the most important because these include those that may cause cancer in the genital, anal and oral area. This lies in limiting the number of sexual partners, using condoms and vaccination, preferably before the onset of sexual life. Regular monitoring allows early detection and initiation of treatment before damage is eliminated or spread. The most painless treatment of these small skin protrusions that resemble olives or small mosquitoes, is done with specialized lasers, which can directly deal with any different strain of the HPV virus and rid the individual of the warts in a single session. “Avoiding HPV infection can protect both the skin and other body organs from serious damage that can threaten life. Therefore, we must take care of our skin that is the entrance gate of the virus, wash hands often, avoid contact with objects that may carry the virus, not put fingers in the mouth, protect the soles that are more prone to injuries and therefore infections. To choose a permanent partner, to use condoms and, above all, to trust vaccines against the virus,” concludes Dr. Stamos.