What is a risk factor for developing vulvar cancer?

High-risk type HPV infection is a significant risk factor for developing vulvar cancer. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that has been linked to several types of cancers, including cervical, vulvar, and anal cancer. Specifically, high-risk HPV strains, such as HPV types 16 and 18, have a well-established role in the pathogenesis of various malignancies, including vulvar cancer. The virus contributes to the dysregulation of cellular processes that can lead to malignant transformation of epithelial cells in the vulvar region.

While obesity, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes may have broader implications on health, their direct connection to vulvar cancer is less established. Obesity and diabetes are associated with various types of cancer but do not have the same direct correlation with vulvar cancer as high-risk HPV does. Therefore, the presence of high-risk HPV infection stands out as a primary and actionable risk factor in the context of vulvar cancer prevention and screening.