Which HPV types are predominantly responsible for causing cervical cancer?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a well-known viral infection associated with the development of cervical cancer, particularly its high-grade precursors. HPV types 16 and 18 are recognized as the most significant oncogenic strains, responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases worldwide. These types contain specific early genes, particularly E6 and E7, which lead to malignant transformation of cervical epithelial cells by interfering with tumor suppressor proteins such as p53 and Rb.

While HPV types 6 and 11 are closely associated with benign lesions, such as genital warts and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, they are not significantly linked to cervical cancer. On the other hand, types like 31 and 33 also have associations with cervical cancer, but their prevalence and oncogenic potential are markedly lower compared to types 16 and 18. It is the high-risk HPV types, particularly 16 and 18, that are critically important in the pathogenesis of cervical cancer, making them the primary focus for vaccination and screening strategies.