Distribution and prevalence of HPV in HIV-negative and -positive women: Hospital-based study from Central India.

BACKGROUND

Causal association of human papillomavirus (HPV) with genital malignancies and nonmalignant disorders is well established. Immunocompromised status can affect the prevalence of HPV infection and presentation.

AIMS AND

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to look at the prevalence of HPV strains in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative and -positive women, to plan screening strategies and identify high-risk women early for early cancer prevention.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A total of 1095 women screened for HPV were analyzed retrospectively. Available details were entered in the master chart, and descriptive analysis was done.

RESULTS

Three hundred forty-five HIV-negative and 750 HIV-positive women were screened. The HPV positivity rate was 11.8% in the HIV-negative group, while it was 31.6% in HIV-positive women.

DISCUSSION AND

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the increased risk of HPV infection and cervical dysplasia in HIV-positive women, stressing the need for comprehensive cervical cancer screening. Regular HPV and triage testing are vital for early detection and cancer prevention. Implementing one-stop solutions at anti retroviral therapy (ART) centers, including counseling, ART management, and cervical cancer screening, will improve outcomes. Enhanced public health initiatives for HPV vaccination and routine screening are essential for reducing cervical cancer burden in high-risk groups.