Prevalence of high-grade HPV types among women in Astana, Kazakhstan (2018-2022)

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern worldwide, and human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of this disease. While there have been some studies on the prevalence of HPV in Kazakhstan, the country faces unique challenges in preventing and treating HPV-related diseases, including limited resources, a lack of awareness about HPV, and cultural attitudes toward sexual health. This research article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of HPV genotype distribution in Astana, Kazakhstan, for the last five years. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed from 2018 to 2022. Study population: Kazakhstani women referring to “Olympus laboratories network” settings for HPV testing age 18-64. AmpliSens® Real-Time PCR kits for HPV genotyping 14 high-risk HPV types (16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, 68) were performed. Results: This study revealed the increasing trend in HR-HPV prevalence among women for five sequential year periods. As a result, approximately 43% of women referred to the HPV testing were HR-HPV positive, with the most prevalent type being HPV 16 (20%), followed by HPV types 31, 52, 51. Conclusion: By examining the latest research on HPV and cervical cancer in Kazakhstan, we hope to contribute to developing effective public health policies and interventions to help reduce these diseases' burden in this country. Furthermore, the database will be established for future large-scale studies after vaccination implementation.