This research examines the prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes among women in South Korea, revealing insights that could guide improved vaccination strategies. Although human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence and genotype patterns are known to vary globally, most studies have focused on Western populations, with limited data specific to Asia and South Korea. In this study, the overall prevalence of HPV among women in South Korea was 44.3%, with high-risk (HR) HPV types making up 37.5% and low-risk (LR) types comprising 18.3%. The most frequently detected HR HPV genotypes included types 52, 53, 58, 68, and 16. A significant concern noted was that 34.1% of those with HR HPV were infected by genotypes not preventable by the current 9-valent vaccine, specifically types like 68, 51, 39, and 56.
The analysis also highlighted that HPV prevalence was highest among teenagers and women in their twenties, with infection rates of 58.3% and 51.9%, respectively. Additionally, younger women exhibited a higher prevalence of HR HPV types not covered by the 9-valent vaccine, with 46.7% of infected teenagers and 37.6% of women in their twenties harboring these non-preventable strains. These findings point to a critical need to reevaluate the current vaccination approach, as a considerable proportion of HR HPV genotypes in South Korea are not targeted by the 9-valent vaccine, particularly among younger populations. Tailoring the HPV vaccination strategy to address these prevalent HR genotypes could potentially offer more comprehensive protection and reduce HPV-associated risks among Korean women. Adjusting vaccines or supplementing with alternative measures could be pivotal in effectively controlling HPV infection in South Korea.
