Comprehensive Insights into Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Cervical Cancer: Progress, Therapeutic Approaches, and Prospects in 2023

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a widespread viral infection that profoundly impacts women's health on a global scale. Persistent genital infection with high-risk HPV strains accounts for approximately 99.7% of cervical cancer cases, making it the most prevalent HPV-related disease. According to statistical projections, a total of 13,960 women are expected to be diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer in the United States in the year 2023. On a global scale, it is estimated that around 604,127 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in the year 2020. While most HPV infections resolve spontaneously, persistent infections with high-risk types can progress to cancer development. However, significant progress has been made in combating HPV and its associated diseases. Two highly effective prophylactic vaccines have been developed, targeting HPV types 16, 18, 6, and 11, offering promising prevention strategies. Additionally, HPV testing has emerged as a clinically valuable tool for cervical cancer screening, demonstrating higher sensitivity than traditional cytology methods. These advancements in understanding HPV and its link to cervical cancer have paved the way for current strategies and ongoing developments. This manuscript provides an overview of the prevalence and impact of HPV infection, highlighting the critical role of prophylactic vaccines and HPV testing in the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer.