WHO guideline for screening and treatment of cervical pre-cancer lesions for cervical cancer prevention: use of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA genotyping: web annex A: evidence summaries
Overview
Cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where effective screening strategies are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality and support global elimination efforts. This web annex, developed as part of a World Health Organization guideline, compiles the evidence underpinning recommendations on the use of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA genotyping in the screening and management of cervical pre-cancer lesions. The document presents two complementary evidence summaries.
The first examines genotype-specific risks of developing high-grade cervical lesions and cancer through pooled analyses of large datasets, and assesses how extended HPV genotyping can support risk stratification and triage of HPV-positive women. The second summarizes modelling studies evaluating the benefits, harms and cost-effectiveness of screening algorithms incorporating limited or extended genotyping across diverse settings, including scenarios relevant to resource-constrained contexts. Together, these analyses describe methodological approaches, key outcomes and implications for screening performance and programme design. The annex is intended to inform guideline development groups, policymakers and programme implementers by providing a transparent and robust evidence base for optimizing cervical cancer prevention strategies.
