Analysis of high-risk human papillomavirus infections and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: factors influencing awareness among women of childbearing age in southwest China.

Abstract

High-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections are a leading cause of cervical diseases among Han Chinese women of reproductive age. Despite studies like Mai et al. (2021) addressing HPV prevalence in Southern China, awareness remains low, especially in Southwest China. Our study addresses this gap. This hospital-based, retrospective study analyzes the prevalence of high-risk HPV and its association with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) among Han Chinese women of reproductive age in Southwest China. Data were collected from 724 women undergoing routine health exams from December 2022 to April 2023. A total of 102 women with high-risk HPV infections were identified. A survey assessed HPV awareness, CIN incidence, and socio-demographic factors influencing awareness. Of the 724 women, 102 (14.1%) were diagnosed with high-risk HPV, with HPV-16 being the most common subtype (22.5%). Awareness was significantly lower among unmarried women (OR: 6.632, p = 0.047), those with high school education or less (OR: 20.571, p = 0.003), and rural residents (OR: 19.483, p = 0.020). HPV-16 was detected in 54.55% of women with high-grade CIN. There is an urgent need for targeted education and HPV vaccination in Southwest China, particularly for women with lower education, rural residents, and older individuals. Subtype-specific strategies are essential for preventing and managing CIN.