A large-scale cross-sectional cervical screening study reveals HPV prevalence in western China

Numerous epidemiological studies have shown that significant regional variations exist in the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the distribution of HPV subtypes during cervical screening. It is particularly noteworthy that in regions with high-risk factors such as high fertility rates, early pregnancy, and early marriage, women may be at higher risk of HPV infection. Therefore, conducting large-scale studies on cervical screening—especially in these underserved areas—is of great significance. This study conducted a large-scale cross-sectional study on cervical screening in western China (Xichang, Sichuan) using a combination of thin-layer cytology (TCT) and HPV testing. Among the 3,522 women who met the inclusion criteria, 13.77% exhibited cervical or vaginal abnormalities (positive cytology or HPV test results). Colposcopy revealed a total of 58 cases of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer. Among the participants who underwent HPV testing as part of cervical screening, 112 (23.09%) were infected with HPV; of these, 20 (17.86%) were infected with HPV types 16/18, while 82.14% were infected with non-HPV 16/18 types. Contraceptive method, number of pregnancies, and number of deliveries had a significant impact on the risk of HPV infection. HPV infection, particularly infection with high-risk HPV types, was positively correlated with the progression of cervical CIN lesions. The results of this study provide an empirical basis for understanding the epidemiology of HPV in Yanyuan County, Xichang City, China.