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Use of Interferon-γ Enzyme-linked Immunospot Assay to Characterize Novel T-cell Epitopes of Human Papillomavirus
Published on: March 8, 2012
Human papillomavirus infection in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia: a population-based study
Bolormaa Dondog1, Gary M Clifford, Salvatore Vaccarella
1Research Program Infection and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
Summary
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is highly prevalent in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, particularly among younger women. This high HPV burden suggests a significant, unmeasured cervical cancer risk, underscoring the need for enhanced prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Limited data exist on human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer burden in Central Asia.
- Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, represents a key population for understanding HPV epidemiology in the region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of HPV DNA and seropositivity in women in Ulaanbaatar.
- To identify risk factors associated with HPV infection.
- To assess the potential cervical cancer burden in this population.
Main Methods:
- Cervical cell specimens were collected from 969 women aged 15-59 years.
- HPV DNA was detected using a GP5+/6+ PCR-based assay for 44 types.
- Seropositivity for L1 proteins of specific HPV types was assessed using multiplex HPV serology.
Main Results:
- Overall HPV DNA prevalence was 35.0%, highest in women under 25 (48.5%).
- High-risk HPV types were found in 24.5% of women, with prevalence remaining over 25% across all age groups.
- HPV seroprevalence was 38.0%, increasing with age; HPV16 was the most common type detected by both PCR and serology.
Conclusions:
- HPV prevalence in Ulaanbaatar is higher than in many other Asian populations, indicating a substantial cervical cancer burden.
- Factors such as the lifetime number of sexual partners and induced abortions were associated with HPV infection.
- Improved cervical cancer prevention through screening and HPV vaccination is crucial for Mongolia.
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