Cervical cancer therapies: Current challenges and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, causing over 300,000 deaths annually.
• Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus subtypes, driven by E5, E6, and E7 oncoproteins, is the primary cause.
• While preventable and treatable with early detection, it disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries with advanced disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the initiation and progression of cervical cancer.
• To analyze the advantages and challenges of current cervical cancer therapies.
• To discuss promising new therapeutic strategies for cervical cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of cervical cancer pathogenesis.
• Analysis of existing treatment modalities including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
• Exploration of novel therapeutic approaches such as immunotherapies, targeted therapies, combination therapies, and genetic treatments.

Main Results:

• Cervical cancer initiation is linked to persistent HPV infection and viral oncoproteins.
• Current treatments offer varying success rates, with significant challenges in resource-limited settings.
• Emerging therapies show promise for improved efficacy and patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Cervical cancer remains a significant global health issue, particularly in underserved regions.
• Advancements in understanding HPV oncogenesis are paving the way for innovative treatments.
• Future research should focus on developing and implementing novel, accessible therapies to reduce cervical cancer mortality worldwide.