• The role of HPV vaccine in the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer: a systematic review.
  • Rostam Rezaeian,1,* Ali Feli,2 Aysan Sabeti,3 Seyedeh Leila Seyedian Shishavan,4
    1. Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences
    2. Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences
    3. Higher Education institute of Nabi Akram, Tabriz, Iran
    4. Higher Education institute of Nabi Akram, Tabriz, Iran


  • Introduction: Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women and the fourth most common malignant disease among women worldwide. The high mortality rate is largely attributed to the lack of adequate screening programs for early diagnosis. Approximately 95% of cervical cancers are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the primary risk factor and plays a pivotal role in the development of cervical cancer. This study aims to review the role of the HPV vaccine in the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer.
  • Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis study was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and covered studies published between 2010 and 2024. The study followed five stages: initial design, search for information sources, collection and review of articles in terms of inclusion criteria, evaluation of articles, and finally statistical analysis of data. To minimize publication bias, the search was conducted independently by two researchers.
  • Results: Vaccination against human papillomavirus is the most important measure in preventing cervical cancer. In many developing and developed countries, HPV vaccination and screening programs for cervical cancer have been widely implemented. HPV vaccination has proven to be highly effective and has been incorporated into the immunization programs in numerous countries. Currently, three types of vaccines are available, with the 9-valent Gardasil vaccine demonstrating greater efficacy compared to the other two, However, the 4-valent Gardasil vaccine is more widely recommended due to its cost-effectiveness.
  • Conclusion: Many premalignant and malignant lesions of the female genital area effectively prevented through HPV vaccination. Given the high prevalence of cervical cancer in Iran, it is essential to implement fundamental preventive measures including vaccination prior to exposure, screening tests, and educational initiatives to raise awareness.
  • Keywords: HPV, Human Papillomavirus, Gardasil, Vaccination, Cervical cancer.