PURPOSE: Overview of the impact of ano-genital warts in Italy. COMMENTS: In Italy, the HPV infection is not subject to mandatory reporting, the available epidemiological data come from sentinel surveillance of STIs and show a high spread among young people under 25 years and an increase in reports after 2004. Although ano-genital warts are a benign disease, nonetheless they are characterized by a big relational and psycho-sexual impact, due also to high recurrence rates. CONCLUSIONS: It is extremely useful to promote information activities, education in safe sex, early diagnosis and treatment of genital warts. In this context, primary prevention through vaccination represents a valid tool of protection.
PURPOSE: Overview of the impact of ano-genital warts in Italy. COMMENTS: In Italy, the HPV infection is not subject to mandatory reporting, the available epidemiological data come from sentinel surveillance of STIs and show a high spread among young people under 25 years and an increase in reports after 2004. Although ano-genital warts are a benign disease, nonetheless they are characterized by a big relational and psycho-sexual impact, due also to high recurrence rates. CONCLUSIONS: It is extremely useful to promote information activities, education in safe sex, early diagnosis and treatment of genital warts. In this context, primary prevention through vaccination represents a valid tool of protection.