Human Papillomavirus Prevalence in the U.S.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common, sexually transmitted infection known to cause cervical cancer. In 2006, the first HPV vaccine, which is highly efficacious against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, was licensed by the FDA. New guidelines from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommend the vaccine for girls aged 11 to 12 years, before most girls become sexually active. To determine the population-based prevalence of HPV infection, CDC investigators analyzed self-collected vaginal swabs by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from 2026 females aged 14 to 59 years who participated in the 2003–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

For all age groups combined, the prevalence of HPV was 26.8%. The prevalence significa…