Hpv e carcinoma cervicale: aspetti eziologici, epidemiologici e prevenzione

Cervical cancer occurs as a second form of cancer in women. Papilloma virus is a virus that affects the epithelium of the cervix and genital tract. Several epidemiological studies have shown that HPV infection is a virus that can cause infections that can regress, persist or progress. They can cause benign diseases such as warts and genital warts and malignant diseases such as cervical cancer. It represents an important health problem as it affects thousands of women in the world every year and it is second only to breast cancer in terms of incidence and death. Some types of viruses have a tendency to progress to cervical cancer greater than others. It is estimated, in fact, that Hpv 16 and Hpv 18 are responsible for over 70% of the cases of this cancer, including the types of Hpv 31, 33, 35.45, 52, 58 and almost 90% of the cervical cancer. The best strategy to combat these diseases is the secondary prevention, mainly given by the Pap test. In recent years, the research has focused on the development of vaccines for primary prevention alongside existing secondary prevention strategies: HPV-9 valent vaccine. The synergistic action of Pap test and vaccine could lead, within 30 years, to the complete disappearance of cervical cancer. To achieve this, an extensive programme based on public education and information for professionals, in particular pediatricians and family doctors, should be implemented.