Global Journal of Medicine and Public Health (May 2024)

HIV infection and pre-cancerous cervical lesions in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

  • Abiyu Ayalew Assefa 1 ,,
  • Kaleab Tesfaye Tegegne,
  • Eleni Tesfaye Tegegne,
  • Mekibib Kassa Tessema,
  • Getnet Tafese,
  • Geleta Abera Gemeda,
  • Seblewongel Megersa

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9, no. 5

Abstract

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Background Cervical cancer is potentially preventable and an important health issue for women around the world. In 2010, it was estimated that 20.9 million women were at risk of developing cervical cancer in Ethiopia with an estimated 4,648 and 3,235 annual numbers of new cases and deaths, respectively. In this paper, we aim to determine the impact of HIV status on pre-cancerous cervical lesions (PCCL). Methods Using a systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched the literature for studies evaluating the relationship between HIV status and pre-cancerous cervical lesions. Data were summarized using fixed effect models. Results Nine out of 360 records identified through database searching met our inclusion criteria. The pooled odds ratios for pre-cancerous cervical lesions, comparing women who are HIV positive versus women who are HIV negative, was OR 1.75 (95% CI: 1.40, 2.18), P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%). Conclusions These findings support the hypothesis that HIV positive status has a marked effect on PCCL and the risk of PCCL. Government and other stakeholders should give patients living with HIV high priority for cervical cancer screening.

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