First US national HPV conference highlights advances in cancer prevention

In a recent interview with Contemporary OB/GYN, Leeya Pinder, MD, MPH, associate professor at the University of Cincinnati, highlighted the first US national human papillomavirus (HPV) conference held in Indianapolis.

Pinder emphasized the excitement and importance of this inaugural event, which brought together a diverse group of stakeholders—including clinicians, public health professionals, patient advocates, survivors, and industry leaders. The conference provided a platform for collaboration and the sharing of scientific and clinical advancements related to HPV, with a strong focus on its role in various cancers such as cervical, oropharyngeal, and anal cancers.

One of the key themes of the conference was the push toward cervical cancer elimination. HPV is a primary cause of cervical cancer, and the conference highlighted preventive strategies such as vaccination and screening. Attendees discussed the need for widespread education—not just among the general public, but also within health care systems—about HPV’s role in cancer and the tools available for prevention. Pinder emphasized the dual importance of promoting HPV vaccination and enhancing access to screening programs.

According to Pinder, a promising development discussed at the meeting was HPV self-collection testing. This innovation could significantly improve screening access, especially for hard-to-reach populations who may not engage in traditional, in-office screening methods. Companies such as BD are leading efforts in this area, presenting new opportunities to integrate self-collection into routine clinical practice and public health initiatives.

Pinder noted that future clinical focus should include scaling up self-collection options, integrating them into existing health care frameworks, and continuing to educate communities about the importance of regular screening. This effort is critical to expanding access and promoting equity in women’s health care.

In conclusion, Pinder expressed hope that the conference would be seen as a turning point in HPV awareness and prevention. Beyond cervical cancer, the discussions also spotlighted other HPV-related health concerns, such as oropharyngeal and anal cancers, reflecting the need for a comprehensive approach. The involvement of industry partners demonstrated a growing interest in supporting innovations that improve public health outcomes. Overall, the conference served as a vital convergence of science, advocacy, and innovation, setting the stage for future collaboration and progress in HPV-related health care.

Disclosures: No relevant disclosures

Reference

National HPV Conference. NHPVC. Accessed April 24, 2025. https://nhpvc.org.