Prevalence and correlates of Human Papillomavirus infection in females from Southern Province, Zambia: A cross-sectional study

Lweendo Muchaili ¹, Precious Simushi ¹, Bislom C Mweene ¹

⁰HAND Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mulungushi University, Livingstone Campus, Zambia.

Plos One +

|

August 1, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is highly prevalent in Zambian women, particularly younger individuals and those with HIV. Sample collection methods also impact HPV test results, highlighting the need for enhanced screening.

Area Of Science

Public Health
Infectious Diseases
Gynecologic Oncology

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a primary driver of cervical cancer, a significant health issue for women globally and in Zambia.
Limited data exists on HPV prevalence and associated factors in sub-Saharan Africa, necessitating regional studies.
Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women in Zambia.

Purpose Of The Study

To determine the prevalence of HPV infection in women in the Southern province of Zambia.
To identify factors associated with HPV infection in this population.

Main Methods

A cross-sectional study involving 4,612 women screened for HPV infection at Livingstone University Teaching Hospital from September 2021 to August 2022.
Demographic and clinical data were extracted from a laboratory programmatic database.
Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify correlates of HPV infection.

Main Results

The overall prevalence of HPV infection was 35.56% among the study participants.
Factors significantly associated with a positive HPV result included younger age (AOR 0.98), provider-collected samples (AOR 2.15), and living with HIV (AOR 1.77).
The median age of participants was 39 years.

Conclusions

HPV prevalence is high in women in Zambia's Southern province, influenced by age and HIV status.
The method of sample collection impacts HPV test outcomes.
Enhanced HPV and cervical cancer screening, particularly for individuals with HIV, is crucial.