Comparing the distribution of common human papillomavirus genotypes among the population of Fars province in southwest Iran with the genotypes included in the available HPV vaccines.

Background: Given the strong association between high-risk HPV genotypes, such as HPV 16 and 18, and cervical cancer, this study aimed to compare the distribution of common HPV genotypes in the southwest Iranian population with those included in the available vaccines.

Methods: Based on the sample quality, DNA was extracted from the biological samples of 8036 individuals included in the study using three different methods (automated instrument, column, and precipitation), and a total of 21 different HPV genotypes were detected using real-time PCR.

Results: The majority of participants were women (> 99%), with a positive rate of HPV infection of 29.