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Is There Geographic Variation in Poland in the Distribution of Specific High-Risk HPV Genotypes in Normal Cervical Epithelium, Dysplastic Lesions, and Cervical Cancers?
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Department of Tumor Pathology, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Kraków Branch, 31-115 Kraków, Poland
2
Department of Radiotherapy, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Kraków Branch, 31-115 Kraków, Poland
3
Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Kraków Branch, 31-115 Kraków, Poland
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Cancers 2026, 18(11), 1774; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18111774
Submission received: 8 April 2026
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Revised: 25 May 2026
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Accepted: 27 May 2026
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Published: 28 May 2026
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Related Cancer)
Simple Summary
Cervical cancer is a significant health problem in Poland, largely caused by infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (hrHPV). This study summarizes current knowledge about how often different HPV types occur in Polish women and whether their distribution varies between regions. A review of published studies shows that HPV16 is the most common and most dangerous type across all groups of women, including those with normal cytology, precancerous lesions, and cervical cancer. However, other hrHPV types, such as HPV31, HPV51, HPV52, HPV56, and HPV66, also occur frequently, and their distribution differs by region. For example, HPV51 is more common in southern Poland, while HPV56 and HPV45 are more often found in central regions. These regional differences may affect the effectiveness of screening and vaccination programs. Better, standardized monitoring of HPV types across Poland is needed to improve prevention and early detection of cervical cancer.
Abstract
Cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge worldwide and in Poland, where mortality rates are among the highest in the European Union. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV), particularly genotype HPV16, plays a central role in cervical carcinogenesis. This study aimed to evaluate the regional variability of hrHPV prevalence and genotype distribution in Poland and to assess its potential implications for cervical cancer incidence and prevention strategies. A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify studies published up to May 2025 reporting hrHPV prevalence and genotypes among Polish women. Eligible studies included population-based cohorts, women undergoing screening, and patients with cervical lesions or cancer. The analysis revealed substantial heterogeneity in hrHPV prevalence and genotype distribution across regions and study populations. Nationwide data indicate high overall HPV prevalence (up to 50.9%), with HPV16 consistently dominating, followed by HPV31, HPV51, HPV52, and HPV66. Regional differences were observed, including a higher prevalence of HPV51 in southern Poland and HPV56 and HPV45 in central regions. Studies in women with abnormal cytology or cervical cancer showed markedly higher hrHPV prevalence (often >90%), with HPV16 predominating in high-grade lesions and invasive cancer. These findings confirm the dominant oncogenic role of HPV16 while highlighting significant regional variability in other hrHPV genotypes. Such differences may influence the effectiveness of screening and vaccination programs. Strengthening standardized, regionally stratified HPV surveillance is essential to optimize cervical cancer prevention and tailor public health interventions in Poland.
Keywords:
HPV genotypes; geographical variation; Poland
