Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) - A Threat to Women Worldwide: Emerging Solutions for Cervical Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a papillomavirus that infects the skin and mucous membranes of humans. It impacts the health of women far more than it impacts men. Approximately 200 HPV types have been identified so far. Some HPV sub-types cause warts (verrucae) and certain others cause cancers including cervical cancer, while others have no symptoms. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted virus infecting human and presents as exophytic verrucous white or pigmented lesions with symptoms of bleeding and pain. The HPV infection and thereby cervical cancer incidence are found to be higher in underdeveloped countries. Aim and Objective: This review aims at summarising the new advancements in the solutions for cervical cancer especially, the HPV targeted therapeutic vaccine developments and prospects. Conclusion: The primary reason noted is the lack of access to screening and awareness about risk factors. However, the applicability of these screening in India is questionable. Furthermore, the women (especially Indians) psychologically don’t like to have Pap smear when they don’t have any abnormal symptoms. Moreover, the Pap smear test is not so efficient to screen before the onset of cervical lesions. More research is needed in screening methods so that best practices for prevention and management can be developed and implemented. Even though there are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved HPV vaccines like Gardasil, Gardasil 9, Cervarix, which prevent infection against various high-risk HPV types, HPV associated diseases remain a significant public health problem since the HPV vaccines do not treat the already infected individuals.