Global pattern of persistent human papillomavirus infection in female genital tract: An update system review and meta-analysis

We analyzed the type-specific persistent infection of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) across different continents, aiming to offer valuable insights into the implementation and development of HPV vaccines. There were 129 studies included 656,555 participants. The weighted mean time for any persistent HPV infection was 13.29 months. The single and multiple HPV infection were persistent for median of 12.27 and 18.99 months, respectively. HPV35 is the common genotype of persistent infection in Asia and Africa, as well as HPV53 in Europe. Individuals (>50 years old) were to be more prone to persistent infection. Our study revealed approximately 50% of persistent HPV infection resolved after two years. A 24-month interval for HPV testing is proposed as a way to identify persistent HPV infection. In addition, to develop region-specific guidelines for HPV vaccines can be utilized as references for the diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer.