Human Papillomavirus Research in Latin America

Abstract

In the last three decades, tremendous knowledge has been gained about human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and its associated diseases worldwide, and Latin American (LA) countries have made relevant contributions in the field. This chapter summarizes the major contributions made in LA on HPV epidemiology and prevention strategies. The region has one of the highest incidence and mortality rates from cervical cancer in the world. Overall, mortality rates are extremely high despite cytological screening in place in several countries. On the other hand, less is known about other HPV-associated tumors such as vulvar, vaginal, anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers. Overall, HPV DNA prevalence varies from 16% in normal cytology (substantially higher than worldwide prevalence estimates) to up to 90% in cervical cancer, HPV16 being the most frequently detected type in every cytological grade. Moreover, data on the natural history of HPV infections and risk of disease development are available from large cohort studies and served to propose new primary and secondary prevention modalities that include prophylactic HPV vaccination and HPV testing, respectively. The HPV vaccine was introduced in the national immunization programs of several LA countries, and multiple screening experiences using HPV testing were introduced in the region.