HIV, HPV, and oral health in Tanzania: a scoping review

People living with HIV (PLHIV) are at an increased risk of oral manifestations, including those linked to human papillomavirus (HPV). In Tanzania, the prevalence and impact of oral HPV among PLHIV remain unknown. This scoping review aimed to map evidence and identify gaps at the intersection of HIV, HPV, and oral health.

We conducted a scoping review of studies on oral health in relation to HIV or HPV. Studies involving HPV or oral health among PLHIV were included, while studies conducted outside Tanzania, lacked empirical data, or did not report relevant outcomes were excluded. Outcomes were prevalence of oral manifestations, HPV detection, HPV vaccination, and intervention effectiveness.

Forty-four studies were included. One assessed HPV and oral health; none evaluated HPV vaccination effects on oral outcomes. Prevalence of oral manifestations among PLHIV increased from 10% to 34% over two decades. Antiretroviral therapy reduced oropharyngeal candidiasis but showed no effect on head and neck cancers.

Evidence on HPV-related oral lesions among PLHIV in Tanzania is scarce. Research is needed to define prevalence, risk factors, and barriers to care, which will inform policies to expand HPV vaccination, strengthen the oral workforce, and integrate oral health into HIV services.