Epidemiological surveillance of human papillomavirus prevalence and type distribution in Papua New Guinea: the selection of an appropriate laboratory tool.

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide and is a leading cause of cancer death in Papua New Guinea (PNG). It is well established that persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is necessary for the development of cervical cancer. The recent licensing of two vaccines for the prevention of the two most common high-risk HPV types has prompted renewed interest in the prevention of cervical cancer and HPV in PNG. This review aims to assess and compare available technologies suitable for the epidemiological surveillance of HPV in PNG. Data from the surveillance exercise will provide critical information to the National Department of Health to make an informed decision regarding the introduction of a preventive HPV vaccine.