Which virus is linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the virus that is strongly linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer. HPV is a group of more than 200 related viruses, some of which are classified as high-risk types associated with the development of cervical and other anogenital cancers. When certain high-risk HPV types infect the cervical epithelium, they can lead to cellular changes in the cervix that may progress to pre-cancerous lesions and, if untreated, can ultimately develop into cervical cancer.

The connection between HPV and cervical cancer is well established, with persistent infection by high-risk HPV types being the primary causative factor in the majority of cervical cancer cases. Routine screening (such as Pap smears) and the availability of HPV vaccines have significantly contributed to the early detection and prevention of HPV-related cervical cancer.

In contrast, while other viruses like HIV can increase the risk of various cancers due to immunosuppression, they are not specifically linked to cervical cancer in the same direct manner as HPV. Hepatitis C Virus is primarily associated with liver disease and liver cancer rather than cervical cancer.