A report reveals the prevalence of cancers associated with human papillomavirus in the Middle East

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a central factor in the pathogenesis and development of many cancers, and has a profound impact on global public health.

It is estimated that 50-70% of sexually active individuals are infected with HPV at some point in their lives.

HPV is known to be responsible for more than 5% of all cancers, including cancer of the cervix, penis, vulva, vagina, anus, and oropharynx.

The virus is classified into five groups by strain: α, β, γ, μ, and ν, with the α group containing the high-risk types frequently associated with malignancies.

The carcinogenic potential of HPV is primarily due to the E6 and E7 oncoproteins, which interfere with critical cell regulatory pathways.

According to a new report published in the journal Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine , the Middle East, including Iran, shows a high prevalence of HPV, with increasing cases of cancer caused by HPV.

Traditionally, conservative sexual habits in this region have contributed to reducing exposure to HPV. However, some social transformations and lack of proper vaccination programs have led to higher rates of HPV transmission. 

Globally, HPV accounts for 4.5% of all cancer cases, with a disproportionate burden on less developed regions. The highest infection rates are observed in sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and parts of Asia.

While the prevalence of cervical cancer has declined in Western countries due to effective vaccination and screening initiatives, it remains a major health problem in many parts of the world and is on the rise among younger women in many regions.

High-risk HPV types are known to integrate into the host genome, inactivating the E1 and E2 genes.

This disorder leads to overexpression of oncoproteins E6 and E7, which in turn leads to inactivation of tumor suppressor proteins such as p53 and retinoblastoma (Rb). Inactivation of these proteins leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation and possible malignant transformation.

HPV has evolved mechanisms to evade the host immune system, which contributes to persistent infection and increased cancer risk.

The virus achieves immune evasion by downregulating antigen presentation and modulating the host immune response. This includes reducing the expression of interferon-stimulated genes and altering the function of antigen-presenting cells and T cells, thus impairing the host's ability to mount an effective immune response.

One of the most prominent malignant tumors caused by the human papilloma virus is cervical cancer. In Iran and the Middle East, cervical cancer remains an important public health problem, with a high prevalence of HPV infection.

Genotyping and vaccination are crucial tools in preventing cervical cancer, with vaccines targeting HPV types 16 and 18 being considered the most effective.

Although vaccination is the cornerstone of HPV prevention, vaccination programs in the Middle East face many challenges, including cultural barriers, limited public awareness, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.

The new report highlights the urgent need for strong strategies to combat HPV in the Middle East.