Human papillomavirus is responsible for:

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO-2016

Explanation

Evidence confirms that Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the causative agent in nearly 100% of cervical cancer cases.
High-risk HPV types, specifically HPV-16 and HPV-18, are responsible for over 70% of all cervical cancers worldwide.
The virus's oncogenic proteins, E6 and E7, disrupt the function of the body's key tumor suppressor genes, p53 and RB, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and malignant transformation.
While most HPV infections are transient and cleared by the immune system, persistent infection with a high-risk strain is the most significant risk factor for developing cervical cancer.

Option B: Ovarian cancer is not caused by HPV. Its primary risk factors are genetic and hormonal.
Option C: Breast cancer's etiology is primarily linked to hormonal exposure (estrogen) and genetic factors, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, not HPV.
Option D: Uterine cancer (specifically endometrial cancer) is strongly associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly prolonged exposure to unopposed estrogen, and obesity. It is not caused by HPV.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Role of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in carcinogenesis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This concept is the foundation for primary prevention of cervical cancer through HPV vaccination (e.g., Gardasil, Cervarix), which is recommended for adolescents before the onset of sexual activity.
It underscores the importance of secondary prevention through regular cervical screening (Pap tests and/or HPV DNA testing) to detect precancerous changes early, when they are highly treatable.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients about HPV, vaccination, safe sexual practices, and the importance of adhering to screening guidelines.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key agent in the question stem: 'Human papillomavirus' (HPV).
The question asks what condition HPV is 'responsible for,' indicating a need to identify a direct causal link.
Systematically review each option, recalling the primary etiology for each type of cancer.
Recall or deduce that HPV is famously and strongly linked to the development of cervical cancer. This is a cornerstone concept in gynecologic oncology and public health.
Consider the other options: Ovarian, breast, and uterine cancers are primarily associated with genetic (e.g., BRCA) and hormonal factors, not a viral cause.
Conclude that cervical cancer is the only option for which HPV is the primary causative agent.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QALYCiSATmL723rTVwcSyB

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1567-1569

E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed pp. 995-997, 331-333

Practise the full AIIMS Delhi NO-2016

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.