Nigeria, Feb. 24 -- Women who smoke cigarettes and consume alcohol face a significantly higher risk of contracting the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), researchers at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) have warned.

The researchers gave the warning at the February edition of the institute's monthly media chat held in Lagos, according to a report by The PUNCH.

The researchers, citing a study conducted at the institute and titled Human Papillomavirus Molecular Detection and Genotyping Studies, said their findings show a strong link between certain lifestyle habits and infection with high-risk strains of HPV, the leading cause of cervical cancer globally.

The Deputy Director of Research and Head of the Central Research Laboratory...