There is no exact data on how soon a positive HPV16 test can be turned negative. Usually, if a cytology test indicates a negative test, most patients can turn negative after 16 to 18 months. HPV16 is the most common HPV type in cervical cancer and cervical precancerous lesions. It is a high-risk HPV type, which is one of the most important culprits of cervical cancer and is prone to persistence. If a patient is found to be positive for HPV16, further combined cervical cytology is required. If cytology is suggestive of a negative test, HPV16 can usually gradually turn negative after 16-18 months. It is also important to maintain semi-annual rechecks during this period to see how the viral load has increased or decreased. If HPV16 is positive and cytology suggests atypical squamous epithelial cells or cervical intraepithelial lesions, further referral for colposcopy and cervical biopsy is needed to rule out the possibility of cervical lesions. In addition, effective vaccination can prevent HPV16 infection, especially for high-risk groups who should be vaccinated as early as possible.