Final answer:
Most HPV infections are cleared by the immune system within 2 years, but high-risk strains may persist and lead to cervical cancer. Treatment for genital warts does not eliminate the HPV infection. The HPV vaccine is important for prevention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The clearance of HPV infections typically occurs within 2 years due to the body's immune responses. However, certain high-risk strains like HPV 16 and HPV 18, which contribute to more than 70 percent of all cervical cancer diagnoses, may persist and lead to serious health issues such as cancer in some individuals. While treatment for genital warts caused by low-risk HPV strains is available, it does not eradicate the underlying HPV infection, and the warts can recur. Regular health screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, are important for early detection of potential complications. Moreover, the HPV vaccine provides effective protection against the most common cancer-causing types of HPV and is recommended for young individuals before becoming sexually active.