Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally, with most infections clearing within two years. Persistent infections can lead to various diseases, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. HPV is a non-enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus with over 170 genotypes, of which 12 are high-risk and associated with cancer. Low-risk genotypes cause warts but rarely lead to cancer. HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, and over 80% of sexually active adults will be exposed to it in their lifetime. Vertical transmission during pregnancy is rare, and autoinoculation is uncommon in those without sexual contact. HPV infection is asymptomatic, but high-risk strains are linked to cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. Screening for HPV and cervical cancer is available but not universal, especially in low-resource settings. HPV infection disproportionately affects individuals living with HIV, leading to increased cancer risk and mortality. The HPV vaccine has significantly reduced HPV-related diseases, with near 100% efficacy in preventing cervical cancer if given before sexual activity. Vaccination uptake remains low due to limited access and knowledge. HPV vaccines are available in three forms: bivalent, quadrivalent, and nonavalent. The nonavalent vaccine targets nine HPV types, including those most commonly associated with cancer. The vaccine is effective in preventing HPV infections and related diseases, with long-lasting protection. Vaccination recommendations vary by age and HIV status, with the CDC recommending two doses for children aged 11-12 and three doses for those aged 15-26. The WHO recommends one or two doses for girls aged 9-14 and women aged 15-20. HPV vaccines are most effective when given before sexual debut. Despite their efficacy, vaccine uptake remains low in many regions, particularly in Africa and Oceania. Co-infection with HIV increases HPV acquisition and reduces clearance, leading to higher cancer risk. Therapeutic vaccines are being researched for treating HPV-related diseases, but none are currently approved. Prophylactic vaccines have shown promise in reducing HPV-related lesions, but further research is needed to determine their efficacy in preventing disease progression. Overall, HPV is a significant global health concern, with efforts needed to improve vaccination rates and screening to reduce morbidity and mortality. The development of effective vaccines and improved screening strategies are crucial in combating HPV-related diseases.Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally, with most infections clearing within two years. Persistent infections can lead to various diseases, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. HPV is a non-enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus with over 170 genotypes, of which 12 are high-risk and associated with cancer. Low-risk genotypes cause warts but rarely lead to cancer. HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, and over 80% of sexually active adults will be exposed to it in their lifetime. Vertical transmission during pregnancy is rare, and autoinoculation is uncommon in those without sexual contact. HPV infection is asymptomatic, but high-risk strains are linked to cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. Screening for HPV and cervical cancer is available but not universal, especially in low-resource settings. HPV infection disproportionately affects individuals living with HIV, leading to increased cancer risk and mortality. The HPV vaccine has significantly reduced HPV-related diseases, with near 100% efficacy in preventing cervical cancer if given before sexual activity. Vaccination uptake remains low due to limited access and knowledge. HPV vaccines are available in three forms: bivalent, quadrivalent, and nonavalent. The nonavalent vaccine targets nine HPV types, including those most commonly associated with cancer. The vaccine is effective in preventing HPV infections and related diseases, with long-lasting protection. Vaccination recommendations vary by age and HIV status, with the CDC recommending two doses for children aged 11-12 and three doses for those aged 15-26. The WHO recommends one or two doses for girls aged 9-14 and women aged 15-20. HPV vaccines are most effective when given before sexual debut. Despite their efficacy, vaccine uptake remains low in many regions, particularly in Africa and Oceania. Co-infection with HIV increases HPV acquisition and reduces clearance, leading to higher cancer risk. Therapeutic vaccines are being researched for treating HPV-related diseases, but none are currently approved. Prophylactic vaccines have shown promise in reducing HPV-related lesions, but further research is needed to determine their efficacy in preventing disease progression. Overall, HPV is a significant global health concern, with efforts needed to improve vaccination rates and screening to reduce morbidity and mortality. The development of effective vaccines and improved screening strategies are crucial in combating HPV-related diseases.