Cervical cancer screening and associated factors in women living with HIV followed at Bonassama District Hospital, Cameroon

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer is a major public health problem, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer and constitutes an increased risk for women living with HIV (WLHIV). The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with cervical cancer screening among women with HIV followed at Bonassama District Hospital, Cameroon, in order to improve the coverage and quality of prevention programs. Methodology: The study was conducted in the Bonassama health district over a period of 9 months from November 2023 to July 2024 with a collection period of 4 months. A quantitative, cross-sectional, and analytical approach was adopted, targeting 283 women living with HIV aged 21 and over. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using R software version 4.4.2 and included both descriptive and multivariate analyses to identify factors associated with screening. Results: Screening uptake was low, with 18.7% of participants reporting previous cervical cancer screening. The screening was significantly associated with being divorced (AOR = 8.82, p = 0.024), having received a screening prescription at the HIV Management Unit (AOR = 6.79, p < 0.001), having consulted a gynecologist for another reason (AOR = 2.79, p = 0.015), knowing the symptoms of cancer (AOR = 2.86, p = 0.009) and having received advice from a healthcare professional (AOR = 14.70, p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study highlights the low coverage of cervical cancer screening among women living with HIV in Cameroon. The results highlight the importance of information and support from healthcare professionals to encourage screening. It is crucial to integrate cervical cancer screening into HIV follow-up programs and to improve access to healthcare services for this vulnerable population.