The Rampant Virus That is Off Our Radar: HPV is the most sexually transmitted disease in the U.S., says Dr. Paul Stallone.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is more common than people think. Some estimate that up to 75 percent of the reproductive-age population have been exposed to the virus at some point, making it the most sexually transmitted disease in the U.S. There are about 100 different strains of HPV, which will determine the symptom and area affected. Some strains cause warts to grow on the hands and feet and some cause warts on the genitals, but not all strains will cause warts. In fact 95 percent of HPV viruses cause no health concern or symptom and go undiagnosed. HPV can also enter the body through skin-to-skin contact—even a handshake.

Severe cases are extremely rare, making this disease sound much worse than it actually is. Some studies have estimated that 50 percent of those infected will clear the virus within eight months without treatment and more than 90 percent will be cleared in two years. A healthy immune system can easily address most strains of HPV without our ever knowing, and multiple studies have documented the majority of HPV infections are self-limiting.

If someone with a HPV infection wanted to speed up their recovery, there are many supplements they could try. Several nutrients have shown to increase the probability of clearing an infection. Vitamin B₁₂, folic acid, curcumin, vitamin C and vitamin E are well documented in naturally treating HPV. Antiviral nutrients like oregano, garlic, tea tree oil, thuja oil and goldenseal are excellent therapies that can be taken orally or applied directly to the skin. Many of these can be quite potent and should be diluted before application. A naturopathic physician can recommend correct dosing and strength for the individual.

For the few that may go on to develop a more aggressive form of HPV like cervical cancer, a natural cancer treatment may lead to the best recovery, reducing the chance of cancer reoccurring. Studies have shown that cervical cancer tends to heal itself spontaneously, but it should still be monitored by a naturopathic physician experienced with cancer, especially for this type which has a promising success rate with alternative treatments.

Besides vitamins and supplements, in-office treatments such as intravenous infusions can deliver high levels of nutrients that could never be taken orally. High doses of vitamin C help treat many diseases, with HPV being no exception. As HPV is a virus, intravenous antiviral substances like ozone help to kill it. Ozone has many therapeutic benefits that substantially aid in any disease treatment. It helps to oxygenate the blood, creating an alkaline environment—diseases prefer acidity. Ozone also works extremely well to help support the immune system. These customized intravenous therapies are the most aggressive, yet natural, treatments for HPV and cervical cancer.

Those that have been diagnosed with HPV should consult with a naturopathic physician that can recommend a natural treatment plan. Certain suggestions may be made such as discontinuing an oral contraceptive, which has been shown to increase the likelihood of HPV turning into cancer. Studies have also shown an IUD containing hormones can reduce the clearance of HPV. A healthier alternative would be a copper IUD, which does not have an impact on HPV. Even if HPV is not diagnosed, a naturopathic physician can alleviate symptoms or issues that may be causing trouble.

Paul Stallone, NMD, founded the Arizona Integrative Medical Center, located at 8144 E. Cactus Rd., Ste. 820, in Scottsdale. He combines natural/alternative conventional treatments for each patient’s needs. For more information, call 480-214-3922 or visit DrStallone.com.