Which HPV Types Are the Most Dangerous?
The HPV types considered the most dangerous and highest-risk are HPV-16 and HPV-18.
HPV-16 and HPV-18
HPV-16 and HPV-18 are the high-risk types most strongly associated with cancer, particularly cervical cancer. Approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide are linked to these two types.
They are also associated with other cancers, including:
๐ Anal cancer
๐ Oral and throat cancer
๐ Penile cancer
๐ Vaginal cancer
Why Are HPV-16 and HPV-18 Dangerous?
1. They Have a High Ability to Cause Cancerous Cell Changes
HPV-16 and HPV-18 are more likely to cause severe abnormal changes in cells. They produce proteins known as E6 and E7, which interfere with the cell-control proteins p53 and Rb.
When these protective proteins are disrupted, cells may divide abnormally and eventually develop into cancer cells.
2. They Can Cause Persistent Infection
In most cases, the immune system can clear HPV infection naturally within one to two years.
However, HPV-16 and HPV-18 may remain in the body for a long time. When the infection becomes persistent, the risk of developing cancer increases.
3. They Have a Higher Cancer Risk Than Other HPV Types
There are more than 10 high-risk HPV types, including HPV-31, HPV-33, HPV-45, HPV-52, and HPV-58.
However, HPV-16 and HPV-18 are the most commonly detected types and are responsible for the greatest number of HPV-related cancers.
How Can HPV Infection Be Prevented?
๐ Receive the HPV vaccine. Vaccines are available that protect against 2, 4, or 9 HPV types. Vaccination is recommended at a young age or before becoming sexually active.
๐ Undergo regular cervical cancer screening with a Pap smear or HPV DNA test.
๐ Use condoms to reduce the risk of infection.
๐ Avoid risk-related behaviours, such as having multiple sexual partners and smoking, which may weaken the immune system.
HPV-16 and HPV-18 are considered the most dangerous HPV types because they have a high potential to cause cancerous cell changes and may remain in the body longer than other types.
They are particularly associated with cervical cancer. The best preventive measures are HPV vaccination and regular screening.
Reference :
Targeted Therapy Cancer Center
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