Infection with human papillomavirus in adolescents and young adults

Abstract

Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is associated with different lesions ranging from benign to malignant. The highest prevalence peaks of this infection are found in women between 15-24 years of age. To conduct a review of the current scientific literature on the prevalence of HPV infection in women under 25 years of age worldwide. Databases, PubMed, MedLine, BioMed Central and SciELO were used for this purpose. In this age group a high frequency of HPV infection was observed, as well as a high risk of developing premalignant lesions. The age of first intercourse, the number of sexual partners, the type of HPV infection and viral persistence, were significant risk factors for malignant transformation. Prevention, as a method to avoid infection by these viruses, is a promising weapon in the fight against cervical cancer.