Final answer:
Genital warts are irregular, soft, pink growths on the external genitalia or anus caused by HPV, commonly referred to as a sexually transmitted infection. They can lead to risks like cervical cancer, which can be detected through Pap tests and potentially cured with surgery if found early.
Step-by-step explanation:
Abnormal growths on the skin and membranes around the genitals and anus are known as genital warts. These warts are soft, pink, irregular growths that develop in the external genitalia or anus and are a result of infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Genital warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and are characterized by small, rough growths on the genitals. They can appear as one or more bumps on the skin or mucosa in the genital area. While genital warts themselves are not life-threatening, the presence of HPV can increase the risk of cervical cancer in women, and testing through a Pap test can aid in early detection and potential cure through surgery. Vaccination with GARDASIL is recommended to prevent infection with HPV, especially in females aged 11 to 26 years.