Profile of women with cervical changes from a city in the Northeast Brazil

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: In Brazil, cervical cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death. It reached 5,430 deaths in the year 2013, with estimated 16,370 new cases by 2018. Its occurrence has been associated with previous human papillomavirus (HPV) infection for the development of intraepithelial lesions; however, several factors can influence this appearance, including number of sexual partners and infections by other microorganisms. Objective: The profile of women from the city of Caruaru, Pernambuco, Brazil, with atypia, cervical intraepithelial lesions and cancer, was verified. Material and method: Documentary, analytical, retrospective study, carried out through the collection of information in the database of the State Department of Health of Pernambuco, by TabNet, referring to the tests in the laboratory of the municipality of Caruaru, Pernambuco, Brazil. Results: During the study period, 18,466 tests were evaluated. From the samples evaluated, 735 (4.31%) were squamous and glandular atypia, 167 (0.98%) intraepithelial lesions, and one (0.005%) cancer. Coccus, Gardnerella vaginalis and Lactobacilli were the most evident agents in cervical alterations. Discussion: Studies demonstrate the intimate relationship between infectious agents and the development of cervical lesions and cancers. Gardnerella vaginalis was the most frequent agent in the presence of abnormalities was identified as a facilitator of HPV penetration. Conclusion: Women infected by Gardnerella vaginalis and older than 30 years of age are more exposed to the development of alterations. Guidelines on prevention and screening should be continuous strategies in public services. Understanding these risk factors is a paramount concern because they are involved in the prevention and etiology process of cervical lesions and cancer.