HPV Distribution in HIV Positive and Negative Patients in Zambia
Author Information
Author(s): Ng'andwe Christopher, Lowe John J, Richards Paula J, Hause Lara, Wood Charles, Angeletti Peter C
Primary Institution: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of sexually transmitted HPVs in HIV positive and negative patients in Zambia?
Conclusion
The study found that the rate of high-risk HPVs, particularly types 16 and 18, is significantly higher in Zambia compared to the U.S., especially among HIV positive individuals.
Supporting Evidence
- HPV types 16 and 18 were found in 21.6% of the Zambian samples, significantly higher than the worldwide averages.
- HIV positive patients were two times more likely to have high-risk HPV compared to HIV negative individuals.
- The overall prevalence of HPV among study participants was 65.4%, with 80% in HIV positive patients.
- A nine-fold increase in HPV18 infection frequency was observed in HIV positive individuals.
Takeaway
This study shows that many people in Zambia have a type of virus that can cause cancer, and those with HIV are more likely to have it.
Methodology
A retrospective cross-sectional study using PCR to test vaginal lavage samples for HPV DNA from a cohort of 70 women.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias as participants were from a tertiary care institution and may not reflect the general population.
Limitations
The study only included women with normal pap smears and may not represent the entire population.
Participant Demographics
Participants were women aged 15 to 38, with a majority being married and from various tribal identities in Zambia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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