Epidemiology of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection among Iranian Women Identified with Cervical Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta- Analysis of National Data

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common causes of sexually transmitted disease (STD) in humans. HPV isassociated with gynecologic malignancy and cervical cancer among women worldwide. In the current study we sought to determine theprevalence rate of HPV in Iranian women identified with cervical infections.Materials and Methods: Prevalence rate of HPV in Iran was investigated from 2000-2016 using several databases including Medline, Webof Science, Embase, Google Scholar, Iranmedex, and Scientific Information Database. Statistical analysis was performed by ComprehensiveMeta-Analysis (V2.2, Biostat) software. Random effects models were used by taking into account the possibility of the heterogeneity betweenthe studies, which was tested through the Cochran’s Q-statistic.Results: The meta-analyses showed that the prevalence rate of HPV infections was 38.6 % (95% CI, 27.9-50.5) among Iranian women withcervical infections. The further stratified analyses indicated that the prevalence rate of HPV was higher in the studies conducted during the2000-2008 years.Conclusion: The results of the present study underscore the need for further enforcement of STD control strategies in Iran. Establishingadvanced diagnostic facilities for HPV, vaccination of high risk groups, and continuous monitoring of HPV are recommended for HPVprevention and control.

Epidemiology of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection among Iranian Women Identified with Cervical Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta- Analysis of National Data Keywords:

Human papillomavirus , HPV , Cervical infection , Iran , Meta-analysis