Human papillomavirus infection of the cervix in Victoria, 1982-1985

Cytological evidence of human papillomavirus infection was present in 4.1% of the smear-tests that were received by the Victorian Cytology (Gynaecological) Service during 1982-1985. The prevalence rate among women was estimated to be 2.6% in 1984; for one-third of the women this was a change from their previous cytological status. The prevalence of papillomavirus infection was noted to vary with age and referral source; higher proportions were seen in the age group, 20-24 years, and in the cytological results of women who were attending either a sexually-transmitted diseases clinic or Aboriginal health cooperatives.