Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease. There are more than 100 types of HPV; many are harmless and go away on their own. Thirteen types of HPV can lead to cancer, and are called "high-risk HPV". Despite the prevalence of HPV, studies show that most American adults don't realize the health dangers that HPV can lead to- mainly the variety of cancers linked to HPV.