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Review
. 2024 Oct 26;16(10):e72435.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.72435. eCollection 2024 Oct.

The Burden and Prevention of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infections and Cervical Cancer in India: A Literature Review

Vinit N Deshmukh  1 , Satish Patil  2 , Dilip D Hinge  1
Affiliations
Review

The Burden and Prevention of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infections and Cervical Cancer in India: A Literature Review

Vinit N Deshmukh et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread viral infection affecting the reproductive tract and is associated with multiple types of cancer. It is a significant global health concern, with cervical cancer being one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. HPV infection has been found in both married and unmarried women. The burden of cervical cancer is particularly high in middle- and low-income countries, where HPV vaccination and screening programs are often limited. India faces a substantial challenge with cervical cancer and HPV infection. Cervical cancer ranks as one of the leading cancers among women in India. Studies over recent decades have indicated varying levels of HPV prevalence in the general female population in India. Recognizing the importance of addressing this issue, the Government of India has prioritized cervical cancer elimination as a national public health goal. A strategic plan has been launched to increase cervical cancer screening coverage in adult women and HPV vaccination coverage in girls. This review examines literature published from 2000 to 2023 on the epidemiology of cervical cancer and HPV in India. It also explores the development of prevention strategies, focusing on cervical screening and HPV vaccination programs. Government policy documents were analyzed to understand the national strategic vision and targets. The review concludes by discussing ongoing challenges and future directions for cervical cancer elimination efforts in India.

Keywords: cancer vaccine; disease burden; human papillomavirus (hpv); prevalence; uterine cervical cancer.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Flowchart
Figure 2
Figure 2. Distribution of high-risk HPV genotypes in India
HPV: human papillomavirus
Figure 3
Figure 3. Cervical cancer incidence rates across Indian states
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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