Final answer:
A small proportion of individuals infected with high-risk HPV types, such as HPV 16 or HPV 18, may develop cervical cancer if the infection persists and causes precancerous changes in the cervical cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a small proportion of individuals infected with HPV (human papillomavirus), particularly those inflicted with high-risk strains like HPV 16 or HPV 18, there is a potential for the virus to cause cervical cancer. Although most HPV infections are cleared by the immune system within two years, persistent high-risk HPV infections can disrupt normal cellular functions and cause the cells of the cervix to develop precancerous changes. This can eventually lead to invasive cervical cancer. Even with the advent of the HPV vaccine, such as GARDASIL, regular Pap smears are recommended for individuals with a cervix to catch cervical cancer early when it can typically be cured with surgery.