Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a significant global public health
concern due to its strong association with cervical cancer. This study evaluates HPV
prevalence, genotyping, and phylogenetic relationships among women in the West
Bank, Palestine. It also investigates the incidence of HPV in cervical cancer tissue to
inform public health strategies.
Methods: A total of 379 Palestinian women aged 18 and above from 11 West Bank
governorates participated in a cross-sectional study conducted from September 2023 to
April 2024. Cervical samples were analysed using nested PCR for HPV genotyping, and
a questionnaire collected data on the women's medical history, testing history, and
demographics. Phylogenetic analysis was performed, and 40 paraffin-embedded
cervical cancer tissue specimens were tested for HPV DNA.
Results: The overall HPV prevalence was 14.5%, with the highest rates in the middle
region of the West Bank (19.0%) and among the 20–29 age group (19.6%). HPV 11 and
HPV 6 were the most common low-risk types, while HPV 16 was the most prevalent
high-risk type. The detection of HPV 1 and HPV 53, classified as non-categorized (NC),
adds to the diversity of identified genotypes. Phylogenetic analysis showed regional
clustering of HPV isolates, indicating localized transmission patterns. Of the 40 cervical
cancer tissue specimens, 33 (82.5%) were HPV-positive. The most prevalent high-risk
genotypes in these samples were HPV 16 (32.5%) and HPV 18 (10%), with additional
genotypes like HPV 33 (5%), HPV 51 (5%), HPV 31 (2.5%), and HPV 45 (2.5%)
detected at varying frequencies. HPV 16 was most prevalent in patients aged 40–49,
while HPV 18 was more frequent in those aged 50–59. City-wise, HPV 16 was
predominantly found in Ramallah, Nablus, and Tulkarm, suggesting regional differences
in genotype distribution.
Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for targeted HPV vaccination and
screening programs, particularly for younger women. The high prevalence of HPV 16
and 18 in cervical cancer tissues underscores the virus's critical role in cancer
development. Continued surveillance and research are essential to reduce the burden of
HPV-related diseases in the West Bank.

Conference Title

13th International Palestinian Conference for Laboratory Medicine (IPCLM‑13)

Conference Country

Palestine

Conference Date

Aug. 21, 2025 - Aug. 23, 2025

Conference Sponsor

The Palestinian Medical Technology Association (PMTA)

Additional Info

Conference Website