Final answer:
Over 90% of cervical cancer cases are linked to HPV infection. HPV interferes with normal cell division, leading to cancer development. Vaccination, such as with Gardasil and Cervarix, is key in preventing HPV-related cervical cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The overwhelming majority of cervical cancer cases are causally linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). More specifically, over 90 percent of cervical cancer instances can be attributed to HPV infection. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus known to disrupt the normal cell division process in the cervix. When HPV infects cervical cells carrying mutations, it allows these aberrant cells to divide uncontrollably, which potentially leads to tumor formation. Regular screenings, such as Pap tests, as well as HPV vaccinations, play crucial roles in preventing and detecting the early stages of cervical cancer.
In addition to cervical cancer, HPV is associated with other types of cancers in both men and women, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The Gardasil and Cervarix vaccines target several high-risk HPV types that are responsible for a significant proportion of cervical cancer cases. Gardasil 9, for example, covers types 6, 11, 16, 18, and additional high-risk types 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. Vaccination is an effective preventive strategy, particularly when administered before exposure to HPV.