THE CONNECTION BETWEEN ORAL HEALTH, HPV AND CERVICAL CANCER

Authors: Laura MAGHIAR, Liliana SACHELARIE, Eliza DRĂGAN, Monica HOLICOV, Teodor Marcel STOENESCU, Cristina ALBERT, Cristian Levente GIUROIU, Anca HUNIADI

Abstract:

Cervical cancer remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to screening and vaccination is limited. It is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, with approximately 570,000 new cases and 311,000 deaths in 2018 alone [1]. Persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, is the leading cause of cervical cancer, responsible for nearly all cases [2]. The introduction of HPV vaccination and improved cervical screening methods have significantly reduced the incidence of cervical cancer in many developed countries [3]. However, the global burden of this disease remains high, especially in regions with limited access to these preventive measures.

Keywords:
  • cervical cancer
  • HPV
  • oral health