At least 30 of these types infect the cervix, and about 15 of these have been connected with cervical cancer. In fact HPV-16 and 18, along with 11 other virus types, are responsible for 90 percent of HPV infections that result in HSIL, severe changes in cells lining the cervix, and cervical cancer. HPV infection is more common in younger age groups, particularly among women who are in their teens and late 20s. Because HPV is mainly spread through sexual contact, the greater the number of sexual partners the greater the risk. Women who become sexually active early, who have multiple sexual partners, and whose sexual partners have other partners are at increased risk.
Nonsexual transmission is also possible.
The virus often disappears, but viral DNA can be detected in cervical cells for years after infection. Scientists have concluded that there is a causal relationship between HPV and cervical cancer. Scientists continue to study other factors that may also be required for the development of cancer, such as changes in the immune system. Most infections appear to go away on their own without causing any kind of abnormality. With regular follow-up care by trained clinicians, women with precancerous cervical abnormalities should not develop invasive cervical cancer.