Global Performance of Human Papillomavirus Typing, Screening, and Evaluation As Assessed Using Proficiency Panels Traceable to International Standards: A Retrospective Analysis, 2008–2024

ABSTRACT

Accurate and comparable human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is essential for vaccine research, surveillance, and cervical cancer screening. Since 2008, the WHO HPV Laboratory Network has conducted global HPV proficiency testing traceable to International Standards. Here, we present a retrospective analysis of global HPV genotyping and screening proficiency panel results collected between 2008 and 2024. The HPV genotyping panel consists of 43 blinded samples including HPV6/11, all oncogenic and vaccine‐targeted HPV types. A screening panel, launched in 2022, includes 13 blinded samples for cervical screening. Laboratories worldwide test panels using their methods, and results are evaluated at the International HPV Reference Center. Proficiency is defined as absence of false positives and detection of HPV16/18 at 10 IU/µL, and other oncogenic types at 100 IU/µL (genotyping) or 1000 IU/µL (screening). Genotyping panel participation increased from 54 laboratories (2008) to > 130 (2021). Proficiency rose from ~25% to > 80% by 2024, with > 99% correct detection for most genotypes. Optional low‐copy challenges (1 IU/µL HPV16/18) were detected by > 95% of laboratories by 2024. Screening panel participation increased from 84 laboratories (2022) to 132 (2024), with proficiency improving from 77% to 95% and > 96% datasets free of false positives. Annual HPV proficiency testing provides global laboratory quality assurance supporting cervical cancer elimination.