Which virus is most associated with cervical cancer?

• A. HSV
• B. CMV
• C. HPV
• D. HIV

Answer: (C)

Cervical cancer is most strongly linked to infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV, a DNA virus that infects cervical epithelial cells, can integrate its genome and express oncoproteins E6 and E7 in high‑risk types. These proteins disable tumor suppressors like p53 and Rb, leading to genetic instability and progression from normal epithelium to high‑grade precancerous changes and eventually invasive cancer. Persistent infection with high‑risk types, especially HPV 16 and 18, accounts for the majority of cases. Vaccination against these types and regular screening with Pap tests and HPV testing have markedly reduced cervical cancer incidence. The other viruses don’t cause cervical cancer: HSV causes genital herpes, CMV is mainly a congenital or opportunistic infection, and HIV increases susceptibility to infections but is not itself an etiologic agent of cervical cancer (though immunosuppression can influence HPV persistence).