A Community-Based Study on Prevalence, Genotype Distribution and Persistence of High-Risk Human Papilloma Virus Infection of Uterine Cervix in Rural South India

Abstract

Purpose Knowledge of prevalence and dynamics of high-risk human papilloma virus (HR HPV) is essential for formulating effective prevention strategies for cervical cancer. Methods A cross-sectional observation study was carried out among sexually active women of rural Tamil Nadu for estimating the cervical HR-HPV prevalence and their persistence using Hybrid Capture 2 technique and Linear Array HPV genotyping method with follow-up at 12 and 36\xa0months. Data related to prevalence, epidemiological determinants, genotype distribution and persistence of infection was analyzed statistically for significance. Results A total of 193 of 1523 women were tested positive for HR HPV, a prevalence rate of 12.7%. The HR HPV prevalence peaked at 25–29\xa0years (16.4%) and consistent across 30–50\xa0years of age (13%). Socio-demographic, sexual and reproductive characteristics had no association with HPV prevalence. HPV 16 was the predominant type followed by 52, 58, 35 and 18 in order of their prevalence. The prevalence rate of HR-HPV among the positive cases was 23.8%, with 16% type specific persistence at 12\xa0months. Overall, 91.7% women had cleared the infection and 3.2% was detected with new HPV infection in three years. HPV types 16 and 52 were the common persistent genotypes. Conclusion HPV 16 is the most prevalent and persistent genotype in the Indian population. However, the current vaccine controlled genotype 18 is not among the top five persistent types. More data on diverse population within the country are required to draw conclusive evidence if a tailormade vaccine is the best option towards cervix cancer control.