How long it takes for HPV 16 infection to become cancerous cannot be generalized and is related to whether it is treated aggressively or not. Usually, without active intervention, it may progress to cervical cancer within 3-5 years. HPV is classified into two types: high-risk and low-risk. high-risk HPV infection is associated with the development of cervical cancer, while low-risk HPV infection is associated with the development of condyloma acuminata and papilloma. HPV type 16 is a high-risk virus, and data show that about 70% of patients with cervical squamous cell carcinoma are HPV-16 positive. However, it takes a long time for HPV to develop cervical lesions, and if HPV-16 persists for more than 3 to 5 years, the risk of developing cervical cancer is higher. Therefore, HPV screening has become a mandatory test for cervical screening. Through this test, we can determine whether there is a viral infection and the type of infection, and if there is a high-risk type of infection, antiviral drugs can be used to block it in time, thus reducing the incidence of cervical lesions. In addition, patients with high-risk HPV16 positive disease need to be reviewed regularly for cervical biopsy to clarify the disease progression and be actively treated with antiviral therapy.