Editor’s note: this is the second of a two-part series on AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases in accordance with Safe Sex Week.

Throughout the United States, the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia, herpes, AIDS and condyloma, is on the rise.

Condyloma (genital warts), in particular, is growing very rapidly. The University Health Service saw over 1,100 cases of condyloma last year, making it the most common STD on campus.

Much of the concern over condyloma is its possible link to the growth of cervical cancer.

Twenty thousand new cases of cervical cancer occur each year, making it the fourth leading cause of cancer among women. Cervical cancer growth seems to be closely linked to several types of sexually transmitted wart viruses.

Most genital warts are caused by viruses that don’t cause cervical cancer. However, the average doctor can’t tell if the warts a patient has are caused by a virus associated with cervical cancer.

Once cervical cancer begins through contact with a wart virus, certain factors (i.e. long term use of birth control pills and smoking) might promote its growth.

Numerous studies have demonstrated contraceptive methods have protective effects against wart-initiated cancer. Thus, women could receive considerable protection from wart viruses and other STDs if they used a diaphragm or a latex condom.

Men also can get condyloma. As in women, the use of a condom is an effective deterrent.

Here are some tips for protection against wart viruses:

‘Use barrier contraception.

‘Have genital warts removed. It is important both partners get examined and treated if necessary. Unless both partners are checked, viral reinfection could occur.

Generally, genital warts are pink, cauliflower-like growths in the moist genital/anal area of women and hard yellowish-gray growths in men.

Unfortunately, some people infected with this virus are asymptomatic—the warts may not be present or visible. They may be in the vagina or on the cervix of a woman or in the urethra of a man.

Communicate with your partner about sexual history and activity.

Women should have an annual pap smear and watch for symptoms such as bleeding after sexual activity, unexplained spotting, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

For added protection against cervical cancer: don’t smoke! Also, eat foods rich in folic acid and vitamins A and C (recommended by the American Cancer Society).

For more information, contact: Health Enhancement Services, 753-9748 or the Gynecology Clinic of the Health Service at 753-9728.