Risk Factors and Prevalance of Human Papilloma Virus Among HIV Positive Women Attending Antiretroviral Therapy Clinic in China-Uganda Friendship Hospital Naguru

Abstract

Introduction: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection poses a significant public health challenge, especially among women aged 18 years and above, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Understanding the factors influencing HPV prevention and control is crucial for devising effective interventions. This study aimed to explore the determinants of HPV and prevalence among women aged 18 years and above at China-Uganda Friendship Hospital Naguru. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional study design was employed to gather data from a sample of women aged 18 years and above, attending ART clinic at China Uganda Friendship Hospital. The sample comprised of women who had tested for HPV. The study objectives were to determine the Prevalence of HPV, to identify socio demographic risk factors and to assess sexual behavior-related risk factors associated with HPV infection among HIV positive women 18 years and above attending the antiretroviral therapy clinic at China-Uganda Friendship Hospital Naguru. Data analysis utilized Stata 16 and logistic regression techniques to assess associations between predictor variables and HPV variables. Results: Results from 333 HIV-positive women aged 18 years and above revealed 21.6% tested positive for HPV, with education being the sole statistically significant predictor of HPV infection at the ART clinic (p=0.039, OR=1.71, 95% CI: 1.03-2.85). Conclusion: The study identified education level, HPV immunization status, and having three or more sexual partners as significant predictors of HPV infection among HIV-positive women at the ART clinic. These findings underscore the importance of education and promoting safer sexual practices to reduce HPV transmission.