Understanding the Link Between HPV and Cervical Cancer

January 28, 2026

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection and is a leading risk factor for developing cervical cancer – but regular screening is key to detection and prevention.

“Understanding how HPV plays a role in the development of cervical cancer is crucial,” WVU Medicine Pathologist Dr. Nadia Naumova said.  

HPV and Cervical Cancer Risk 

When someone contracts an HPV infection, certain oncogenic, or cancer-causing types can linger in the body over time – often with no symptoms.  

During this time, long-lasting HPV infections can transform normal cervical cells into abnormal cells. These abnormal cells can then turn into cancer if they are not found and treated.  

“By undergoing regular HPV tests and Pap smears, women can take proactive steps in maintaining their health,” Dr. Naumova said. 

Behind the Scenes of Screenings 

The Pap smear has been around for almost a century, originally used for research into reproduction. In the 1940s, research showed that the test can be used to discern precancerous cells, which changed how cervical cancer was diagnosed.     

These days, every Pap smear obtained via brush in doctor's offices or self-collecting device is directed to a pathology laboratory where the cells are spread on a glass slide for examination. The slides are evaluated for cellular changes and then reviewed by a cytotechnologist and a pathologist. Simultaneously, a molecular test is performed to establish presence or absence of HPV infection.  

“Not visible to naked eye, precancerous changes in the cells can be detected by a trained pathologist and addressed before full-blown cancer develops and metastasizes,” Dr. Naumova said.  

How to Get Tested  

Screenings are accessible and include three major testing options available through WVU Medicine primary care and gynecology providers: 

  • HPV tests 
  • Pap tests 
  • HPV self-collection tests 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends beginning screenings at age 21. If results are normal, many patients can wait up to three years between screenings, based on guidance from their provider. 

“The widespread adoption of Pap smears as a screening test to detect abnormal cells on the cervix have saved millions of lives around the world,” Dr. Naumova said. “Pap and HPV co-testing is currently the most sensitive and widely used cervical cancer screening strategy.” 

Learn more about gynecological care at WVU Medicine in the Eastern Panhandle, and get more information on cancer screenings close to home.   

 

Featured Expert

Dr. Nadia Naumova