Human Papillomavirus and Prostate Cancer: A Review of Epidemiological, Molecular, and Preventive Insights

This review shows the possible link between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and prostate cancer, combining evidence from epidemiological, molecular, and clinical studies. High risk HPV types, particularly HPV 16 and HPV 18, have been seen in normal, benign, and malignant prostate tissues, which can suggest a potential oncogenic role via E6 and E7 proteins and interactions with APOBEC enzymes. Detection methods like PCR, in situ PCR, genome sequencing, and immunohistochemistry, confirm HPV presence in prostate tissues globally. Unlike other pathogens linked to prostate cancer, HPV is vaccine preventable, underscoring the importance of vaccination campaigns and safe sexual practices. Epidemiological data support a significant association (22.6% HPV prevalence in prostate cancers vs. 8.6% in benign tissues), inconsistencies in detection methods and regional HPV subtype variations highlight the need for standardized approaches and large-scale studies. This review highlights HPV’s role in prostate oncogenesis, urges for enhanced public health strategies, and identifies research gaps to guide future investigations.