Yes, the time frame is the great unknown. It may lie latent for many many years and never become an issue in one’s lifetime.
But we are seeing many more young people with it now and I think sexual practices have a lot to do with that as well.
I am 70 yrs of age and growing up only “bad girls” performed oral sex. Today it is common and natural and no longer looked upon as an immoral act - unless of course you live in a state that says it is.
So the virus is going to be spread at a much faster rate. In fact, I read recently that if you’ve performed oral sex on more than 7 partners you have a much greater chance of developing one of the HPV cancers….I should be dead by now😳.
But it’s not a humorous subject, especially to someone who has lost a loved one from the virus. Vaccination is a MUST in my opinion and the idea that a vaccine will simply encourage young people to have sex is ridiculous; they’re gonna have it anyway if they have a mind to.
BTW, my own wife was diagnosed with cervical HPV about 20 yrs ago and never had any symptoms. She had that area removed in a very painful “in office” procedure. Has not shown up in subsequent smears but we’re always looking. Take care.
Phil