How are genital anal warts transmitted? Who are at risk?

Anal or genital warts are sexually transmitted diseases that affect the anal and genital area. Transmission of anal warts usually occurs from person to person through sexual contact. However, they can also be spread through the sharing of personal items, such as a bathroom towel.

Two-thirds of people who have sexual intercourse with a partner who has genital warts will develop warts, usually within three months of intercourse. Scientists estimate that about 1 million new cases of genital warts and anal warts are diagnosed in the U.S. each year.