Epidemiological and Clinical Aspects of Women Infected with High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Genotypes in Mbujimayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Introduction: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major cause of cervical cancer, a leading cause of mortality particularly in low-income countries. Late diagnosis of cervical cancer often leads to the discovery of disease at an advanced stage, accompanied by a poorer prognosis and higher mortality, highlighting the crucial need for effective screening methods. The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiology and clinical characteristics associated with high-risk human papillomavirus (Hr-HPV) infection in women in Mbujimayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methods: Between January and May 2025, samples from the cervix of women aged 30 to 65 who visited care units were collected using the Cervex-Brush® and the heads of the Cervex-Brush® were placed in PreservCyt® medium. The analysis was carried out by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detecting 14 genotypes of Hr-HPV in a single analysis. Result: The age group of 40-49 years was the most affected mainly by all types of Hr-HPV, primarily types 52/58 grouped in P4 at 52.9%. Vaginal itching was the most reported symptom (44.2%) and cervicitis was the most frequent physical sign (11.16%). Genital bleeding during sexual intercourse was found to be a clinical symptom predictive of Hr-HPV infection. Conclusion: In Mbujimayi, adult women aged between 40-49 are the most affected by Hr-HPV infection; and genital bleeding during sexual intercourse is a predictive sign of this infection. The implementation of an effective screening program is necessary to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with cervical cancer.