Factors Associated with HPV Infection in Women in the Cúcuta Metropolitan Area

Abstract

Introduction. Cervical cancer (CC) is caused by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV). Several factors such as gynecological and behavioral history have been associated with this infection. Objective. To evaluate sociodemographic and behavioral factors associated with HR-HPV infection in women living in Cúcuta and its metropolitan area. Methods. Cross-sectional study. HPV genotyping was performed on cytocervical specimens using PCR-HPV Direct Flow CHIP, sociodemographic data were collected using a structured survey. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) were calculated. Results. 72 women were included. The prevalence of HR-HPV infection was 13.89% (95%CI 7.72-23.71). Eight HR-HPV genotypes were detected, with HPV-73 being the most frequent. Factors independently associated with HR-HPV infection were being over 30 years of age (aPR 0.49; 95%CI 0.27-0.89), age at menarche (aPR 0.47; 95%CI 0.27-0.82), not having health insurance (aPR 4.23; 95%CI 1.69-10.60), and having had an abnormal Pap smear in the last three years (aPR 2.35; 95%CI 1.29-4.28). Conclusions. This is the first study to determine the prevalence and factors associated with HR-HPV infection in women living in this region. The factors independently associated with a higher prevalence of HR-HPV infection were lack of health insurance and having had an abnormal Pap smear in the last three years; the former is a modifiable factor and the latter represents a factor that allows for comprehensive assessment and follow-up. The findings of this study highlight the importance of strengthening HPV surveillance, reinforcing vaccination campaigns, and expanding screening programs in Colombia’s border region.