Age-Specific Human Papillomavirus Antibody and Deoxyribonucleic Acid Prevalence: A Global Review

Purpose: Global data on human papillomavirus (HPV) serological and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) prevalence are essential to optimize HPV prophylactic vaccination strategies. Methods: We conducted a global review of age-specific HPV antibody and studies with both antibody and DNA prevalence for HPV-16, -18, -6, and -11. Results: One hundred seventeen studies were included; participants' ages ranged from several hours to >90 years. HPV-16 seroprevalence was generally higher in Africa, Central and South America, and North America, more prevalent among women than among men, and peaked around ages 25-40 years. HPV-18 seroprevalence was generally lower than HPV-16 with a later age peak. Data were limited for HPV-6 and -11, both of which peaked at ages similar to HPV-18. Among 9-26-year-old females, HPV-16 seroprevalence ranged from 0%-31% in North America, 21%-30% in Africa, 0%-23% in Asia/Australia, 0%-33% in Europe, and 13%-43% in Central and South America. HPV-16/-18 DNA prevalence peaked 10-15 years before corresponding HPV-16/-18 antibody prevalence. Conclusions: Females within the HPV vaccine-eligible age-group (9-26 years) had a range of dual HPV-16 DNA and serology negativity from 81%-87%, whereas 90%-98% were HPV-16 DNA negative. Serology and DNA data are lacking worldwide for females younger than age 15 years, the prime target group for vaccination. (C) 2012 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. All rights reserved.