Yes it is estimated a huge % has it, I assume that I do, and the vaccine protects against several cancers.
it is true, many people have this virus. I am a conservative, mother of 2 boys, wife of a good man, Christian, and I have HPV. I actually don't mind telling people because it needs a face and I'm it. I contracted at 21 when the boy I was seriously dating at the time and thought I would marry gave it to me. He did not know he had it, but either way I ended up having half of my cervix removed, pain, and constant years of pap smears making sure I don't have cancer as I almost did if I had not gone to my OBGYN when I did with the problem. I take care of myself and hope that no one else has to live with this virus. I for one plan to ask my OBGYN if I can take the vaccine even though there is no proof it cures the HPV at this point, but why not try anyhow. I'm glad they have this available. All girls should get it in their early teen years.
By the way men don't always know they have this when they pass it along. A women could be a virgin and never have sex until her wedding night and her hubby who could have had sex with one other person can pass on this virus to her. To me it isn't about letting people get away with having unprotected sex, it is about keeping us safe. A responsible person can end up with a virus like HPV. Heck, the guy I dated I was with him for 2 years and thought we were going to be married. I wasn't sleeping around, it was just him. My wonderful husband knows I have this virus and it is no big deal. However, if the vaccine had been available to me when I was 20 years old I would have gotten it for many of reasons even if I had waited to have sex till I was married.