Human papillomavirus or HPV sits at the core of most cervical cancer cases. In a discussion with RIAMO, a seasoned obstetrician gynecologist and a top-tier oncologist from SM-Clinic, Dmitry Subbotin explained how specific HPV types drive cancer risk. He noted that HPV type 16 is responsible for about half of cervical cancers, HPV type 18 for roughly 14 percent, with types 45 and 15 appearing less often. These figures help illuminate why vaccination and screening matter so much for prevention.
Subbotin pointed out that the aggressiveness of HPV types 16 and 18 is linked to their capacity to integrate into the DNA of cervical epithelial cells. In plain terms, these types show a stronger affinity for the native DNA of cervical cells, which can influence how quickly abnormal changes develop. This integration is a key factor in progression from infection to cervical cancer in some patients.
Age patterns in cervical cancer show most cases occur among women aged 35 to 55. The physician emphasized that about one in five cases are diagnosed in people over 65, and the condition is uncommon in young individuals. This information helps shape screening recommendations and risk awareness for different life stages.
Recent research from Randers District Hospital in 2023 explored screening for high risk HPV in women over 65 who had never been tested. The study suggested that HPV testing could support prevention by identifying precancerous changes earlier, potentially reducing the incidence of cervical cancer in this group. These findings contribute to ongoing discussions about expanding screening guidelines to better address age-related risk.
In reflective commentary, Mikhail Gavrilov, a former head of the Center for Gynecology and IVF, spoke about public health priorities. He argued that the state should consider policies that support single mothers to help prevent wider demographic gaps and ensure access to essential gynecologic care for all populations. The voice behind these remarks underscores the broader social context in which cervical cancer prevention occurs, highlighting the need for accessible vaccines, regular screening, and supportive health services for at risk groups. [CITATION: Randers District Hospital 2023; SM-Clinic findings; Public News Service interview with Gavrilov]