The Role of Human Papillomavirus in Cervical Carcinogenesis. Primary Prevention Through Vaccination

Abstract

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is proven to be one of the most frequent causes of sexually transmitted diseases in women and men worldwide. Cervical cancer represents nearly 12% of all cancers affecting women. There is an increased worldwide burden of incidence of HPV and consequently increased chance of cervical cancer. This thesis discusses cervical cancer in relation to HPV infection and informs on HPV vaccination, including the main marketed vaccines, their characteristics, mechanism of action and emphasizing its main role in HPV prevention.