Human Papillomavirus Infection and Cervical Cytology Among Vulnerable Women in Rome, Italy

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Cervical cancer prevention relies on HPV vaccination and screening.
• Vulnerable populations, such as homeless and migrant women, face barriers to accessing these health services.
• Understanding HPV and vaccine knowledge gaps is critical for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of high-risk HPV and abnormal cervical cytology.
• To evaluate knowledge of HPV and the HPV vaccine among homeless and migrant women in Rome.
• To identify needs for tailored preventive strategies in vulnerable groups.

Main Methods:

• Liquid-based cytology and high-risk HPV DNA testing were performed on cytologic samples.
• Socio-demographic, anamnestic, and behavioral data were collected from electronic archives.
• A questionnaire assessed knowledge regarding HPV and HPV vaccination.

Main Results:

• High-risk HPV positivity was found in 14.3% of women with valid tests.
• Abnormal cytology was detected in 8.2% of women with adequate samples.
• A significant knowledge gap was observed: 42.6% had no HPV awareness, and only 37.7% of those aware knew about the HPV vaccine, with 1.5% vaccinated.

Conclusions:

• Low awareness and vaccination rates highlight the need for improved HPV and vaccine education among vulnerable women.
• Tailored preventive strategies and information campaigns are essential to enhance HPV infection awareness.
• Active promotion of HPV vaccination is necessary to improve cervical cancer prevention in underserved populations.