Which HPV types are most strongly associated with the development of cervical cancer?

• A. 6 and 11
• B. 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58
• C. 1 and 2
• D. 45 and 52 only

Answer: (B)

Persistent infection with high‑risk HPV types drives cervical cancer, because these viruses can integrate into host DNA and express oncoproteins that disrupt tumor suppressor pathways, promoting malignant transformation. Among the HPV genotypes, the ones most strongly linked to cervical cancer include 16 and 18, which account for the largest share of cases, and several other high‑risk types such as 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58, which also contribute significantly to cervical neoplasia and cancer risk. In contrast, types 6 and 11 are considered low‑risk and are mainly associated with genital warts rather than cervical cancer, and types 1 and 2 cause skin warts, not cervical disease. Therefore, the listed high‑risk types—16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58—are the ones most strongly associated with cervical cancer.