Which two high-risk human papillomavirus genotypes are responsible for the majority of all cervical carcinomas worldwide?

High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes are critical in the pathogenesis of cervical cancer, and types 16 and 18 are recognized as the most significant contributors. These two genotypes account for approximately 70% of all cervical cancers globally, which highlights their importance in both epidemiology and targeted prevention efforts.

Type 16 is often the most prevalent HPV type found in cervical carcinomas, while type 18 also plays a significant role, although it is less common than type 16. The identification and categorization of these high-risk genotypes have led to the development of effective vaccines aimed specifically at preventing the infections that can lead to cervical cancer, significantly impacting public health strategies.

In contrast, other HPV types mentioned, such as types 6 and 11, are generally associated with benign lesions, such as genital warts, and are not classified among the high-risk types that lead to cancer. Similarly, genotypes like 31, 33, 45, and 52 are also considered high-risk but are not as prevalent in terms of their contribution to cervical cancer incidence compared to types 16 and 18. Thus, the focus on types 16 and 18 aligns with both clinical outcomes and the biology of HPV