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Published on: March 11, 2014
Epidemiology of Human Papillomavirus in Saudi Arabia: A Scoping Review of Prevalence, Genotypes, and Risk Factors
1Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 24381, Saudi Arabia. fsqashqari@uqu.edu.sa.
Background:
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide and a leading cause of cervical, anogenital, and oropharyngeal cancers. While global epidemiology is well-documented, data from Saudi Arabia remain fragmented. Updated evidence is essential to guide national prevention and vaccination strategies.
Methods:
We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar for studies reporting HPV prevalence, genotypes, or risk factors in Saudi Arabia. Eligible studies included cross-sectional, cohort, and case-control designs assessing cervical, anal, oral, or penile HPV using validated molecular methods. Data on study characteristics, prevalence, genotypes, risk factors, and prognostic outcomes were extracted. Reporting followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
Results:
HPV prevalence ranged from 4.7% to 31.6% in general populations and up to 52.9% in high-risk groups. The most common genotypes were HPV-16, HPV-18, and other high-risk (HR) types.
Conclusion:
HPV represents a growing public health concern in Saudi Arabia, with HR genotypes predominating. Sociodemographic and behavioral factors influence infection patterns. Large-scale, population-based studies remain limited, highlighting the need for comprehensive surveillance, vaccination programs, and targeted awareness initiatives to reduce HPV-related disease burden.
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