HPV prevalence worldwide
The prevalence of specific HPV types can vary across countries and regions (Figure 1 ) due to various factors, including population demographics, sexual behavior, healthcare infrastructure, and vaccination programs.12 Here is a general overview of HPV types’ prevalence in different countries:
HPV-16 and HPV-18 are the most prevalent worldwide and are responsible for the majority of HPV-related cancers. They are commonly found in cervical, anal, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers.14,17,37,38
Sub-Saharan Africa has some of the highest cervical cancer incidence rates in the world, with HPV-16 and HPV-18 being the most prevalent types. Other high-risk types, such as HPV-31, HPV-35, and HPV-45, are also commonly found.14,17,37,38
The prevalence of HPV types in Asia can vary across countries. HPV-16 and HPV-18 are generally the most prevalent high-risk types in cervical cancer cases. However, some countries may have a higher prevalence of other high-risk types, such as HPV-58 in China and HPV-52 in Japan.1,13,14,17,35,37,38
HPV-type distribution in Europe can vary between countries. HPV-16 and HPV-18 are the most prevalent types in cervical cancer cases, but there can be variations in the prevalence of other high-risk types. For example, HPV-31, HPV-33, and HPV-45 are also commonly found in some European countries.1,13,14,37,38
HPV-16 is the most prevalent type of HPV-related cancer in North America, including cervical and oropharyngeal cancers. HPV-18 is also common but to a lesser extent. Other high-risk types, such as HPV-31, HPV-33, and HPV-45, are prevalent but less frequent compared to HPV-16 and HPV-18.13,14,35,37,38
The prevalence of HPV types in Latin America varies across countries. HPV-16 and HPV-18 are generally the most common types of cervical cancer cases. However, other high-risk types, such as HPV-31, HPV-33, and HPV-45, can also be prevalent in certain countries.13,14,37,38
Australia and New Zealand have implemented successful HPV vaccination programs. As a result, the prevalence of HPV-16 and HPV-18 has decreased significantly, contributing to a reduction in HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer.14,17,37,38