The human papillomavirus (HPV) belongs to the Papillomaviridae family, which includes at least 100 genotypes affecting the skin and mucous membranes. Of these, about 40 affect the anogenital area in particular, and approximately 15 are oncogenic. Genotypes 16 and 18 are responsible for 70-76% of cervical cancer cases worldwide. Genotypes 6 and 11 are non-oncogenic but are responsible for most cases of condyloma (anogenital warts [AGW]).
HPV prevalence and incidence data are estimated on the basis of epidemiological studies and are better documented in women than men. HPV prevalence varies widely by geographic region, age, the selected subpopulation and HPV detection method. In women, the overall age-adjusted prevalence of genital infections worldwide is estimated at 11.7...