What is the primary virus implicated in cervical cancer?

The primary virus implicated in cervical cancer is Human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a group of more than 200 related viruses, of which at least 14 are known to be high-risk types associated with the development of cervical cancer. HPV is transmitted through sexual contact and can lead to the transformation of normal cervical cells into precancerous lesions and ultimately, invasive cancer if not adequately monitored or treated.

Specifically, high-risk strains such as HPV 16 and HPV 18 are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. The mechanism involves the integration of viral DNA into the host cell genome, disrupting normal cellular processes and leading to increased proliferation and evasion of apoptosis. This oncogenic activity of HPV underscores the importance of vaccination and screening programs aimed at preventing the infection and its sequelae, including cervical cancer.

The other viruses mentioned do not have the same established link to cervical cancer. While Herpes simplex virus is associated with genital herpes, it is not a causative factor for cervical cancer. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) does increase the risk of cancers in general due to immunosuppression, but it is not directly responsible for cervical cancer. Human cervical endogenous virus does not exist; this term may cause confusion but