ASSOCIATION OF HPV16 VIRAL LOAD IN GENE L2 WITH CANCER STAGES AND DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS IN CERVICAL CANCER PATIENTS FROM DHI-QAR PROVINCE, IRAQ

Background. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, especially high-risk HPV16, is a risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV16 genotype demographic variations may affect carcinogenicity. HPV16 mutations and HPV16 DNA concentration were examined in cervical cancer development in Dhi-Qar province, Iraq. Aim of the study. The study endeavors to elucidate the demographic profile and the correlation between highrisk human papillomavirus type 16 and the susceptibility to cervical cancer in Dhi-Qar Province, Iraq, alongside comprehending the genetics of the minor capsid protein L2. The findings of the research could potentially aid in the timely detection of cervical cancer and enhance the efficacy of measures aimed at preventing and managing cervical cancer. Material and Methods. 93 cervical cancer patients and 60 healthy controls participated in a 2017-2020 casecontrol research. L2 gene amplification detected HPV. HPV16 DNA concentration and demographic variations were assessed in cervical cancer patients. Results. HPV16 infected 65% of cervical cancer patients, with a substantially greater viral load (1043.25±8.50 IU/ml) than healthy persons (91.25±2.90). Cervical cancer was more common in women aged 43-52 (37%) and 32-42 (30%). HPV16 infections peaked in 2019 (78%) and 2020 (69%), with older women having less infections. HPV16 infections were greatest in cervical cancer stages IV (70%), III (68%), II (60%), and 0 (60%). Conclusion. HPV16 infections are rising among young women in Dhi-Qar province, Iraq, and HPV16 DNA concentration is associated with cervical cancer. The data suggest demographic differences in HPV16 genotype development of cervical cancer.