Which HPV types are most frequently associated with cervical cancer?

• A. HPV types 6 and 11
• B. HPV types 16 and 18
• C. HPV types 31 and 33
• D. HPV types 26 and 53

Answer: (B)

HPV types 16 and 18 are the most frequently identified strains associated with cervical cancer. These particular types are classified as high-risk HPV strains, meaning they have a strong association with the development of cervical cancer due to their ability to cause oncogenic changes in cervical cells. Approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases can be attributed to these two types.

HPV 16 is the most common type found in cervical cancer, while HPV 18 is also significant though less prevalent than HPV 16. The persistent infection with these high-risk types can lead to the progression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) lesions, which may eventually develop into invasive cervical cancer if left untreated.

Other HPV types, such as 6 and 11, are more commonly linked to benign conditions such as genital warts and are not associated with cervical cancer. HPV types 31 and 33, while considered high-risk, do not have the same strong correlation with cervical malignancies as types 16 and 18. Similarly, HPV types 26 and 53 are considered low-risk and do not have a significant association with cervical cancer. Thus, the choice citing HPV types 16 and 18 accurately represents the primary types implicated in cervical cancer risk