Prevalence and genotypic distribution of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) among ever-married women in coastal regions of Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND

Understanding the distribution of type specific human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes in screen-detected lesions is crucial to differentiate women who are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. This study aimed to find out high-risk HPV genotype distribution among women of the coastal districts of Bangladesh.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study conducted from January 2023 to December 2023 aimed to investigate the prevalence and distribution patterns of high-risk HPV genotypes among ever-married women aged 30-60 years residing in three coastal districts of Bangladesh. Sampling was purposive, with 300 participants per district. Exclusion criteria included prior cervical precancer or cancer treatment, hysterectomy, cervical amputation, and pregnancy. HPV DNA specimens were collected and tested using Cobas 4800. Positive cases underwent further genotype analysis with GenoFlowTM HPV Array Test Kit. Statistical analysis utilized SPSS version 25.0, employing Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests.

RESULTS

Among 900 participants HR-HPV prevalence was 2.56%. HPV 16 was the most prevalent genotype (38.46%), followed by HPV 66 and HPV 68 (11.54% each). Single infections of HPV 16 predominated (39.13%), while for co-infections HPV 66 and HPV 68 were most common (13.04%). HR-HPV positivity increased with age, peaking at 5.5% in the 55-60 years' age group. Participants education level, occupation, income, and reproductive history showed no significant association with HPV positivity. District-wise prevalence varied insignificantly, with Jhalokathi exhibiting the highest (3.0%), followed by Cox's Bazar (2.7%), and Bagerhat (2.0%). HPV 16 was the predominant genotype across districts, with Cox's Bazar and Jhalokathi demonstrating greater genotype diversity than Bagerhat.

CONCLUSION

The study concludes that among ever-married women in the coastal districts of Bangladesh, there is a low prevalence of high-risk HPV. The predominant high-risk HPV genotypes identified were HPV 16, followed by HPV 66 and 68. These findings hold significant implications for policy makers, providing guidance for targeted screening strategies and vaccination programs.