Human papillomavirus types in invasive cervical cancer worldwide: a meta-analysis
2003

Human Papillomavirus Types in Invasive Cervical Cancer Worldwide

Sample size: 10058 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Clifford G M, Smith J S, Plummer M, Muñoz N, Franceschi S

Primary Institution: International Agency for Research on Cancer

Hypothesis

To identify the most prevalent HPV types associated with invasive cervical cancer worldwide and within five geographic regions.

Conclusion

The study found that HPV16 and HPV18 are the most common types associated with invasive cervical cancer globally.

Supporting Evidence

  • HPV DNA was found in 99.7% of cervical cancer cases studied.
  • HPV16 was the most common type found in squamous cell carcinoma.
  • HPV18 was more prevalent in adenocarcinoma than in squamous cell carcinoma.
  • Overall HPV prevalence varied little between geographical regions.
  • HPV vaccines could significantly reduce the incidence of invasive cervical cancer.

Takeaway

This study looked at many cases of cervical cancer around the world and found that most of them were caused by certain types of a virus called HPV.

Methodology

The study selected relevant literature from Medline and ISI databases, focusing on studies with at least 20 cases of invasive cervical cancer and using PCR methods to identify HPV DNA.

Potential Biases

Variations in PCR methods and the potential for missed multiple infections may introduce bias in the prevalence estimates.

Limitations

The cases included are not representative of the worldwide distribution of invasive cervical cancer, with underrepresentation from Africa and Asia.

Participant Demographics

The study included cases from various regions including Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and South and Central America.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Confidence Interval

(76.4–92.7)

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6600688

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