WHO guideline for screening and treatment of cervical pre-cancer lesions for cervical cancer prevention: use of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA genotyping

Overview

Cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge globally, with a disproportionate burden in low- and middle-income countries, despite the availability of effective prevention strategies and the global commitment to its elimination. This guideline presents evidence-based recommendations from the World Health Organization on the use of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA genotyping in screening programmes for the prevention of cervical pre-cancer and cancer.

The document examines different levels of HPV DNA genotyping, including no, limited and extended genotyping, and their role in risk stratification and molecular triage to guide clinical management within screening algorithms. It outlines recommendations primarily for the general population of women, with consideration of programme capacity, particularly in relation to follow-up and treatment services, and describes preferred screening strategies under varying resource conditions. The guideline also summarizes the evidence base underpinning these recommendations, including systematic reviews and modelling analyses, and addresses key implementation considerations such as feasibility, resource use and equity. Intended for policy-makers, programme managers and health professionals, it supports the selection and adaptation of context-appropriate strategies to strengthen cervical cancer prevention and advance progress towards elimination.