Prevalence and Risk Factors of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Infection in Saudi Arabia: An Extended Literature Review

Abstract

Abstract The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a considerable public health risk worldwide, including in Saudi Arabia, where around 358 women are diagnosed each year, resulting in 179 fatalities due to HPV-related malignancies. More than 10.7 million women aged 15 and older are susceptible to HPV infection and its related malignancies. The prevalence of HPV among women in Saudi Arabia is estimated at 2.5%, with HPV-related malignancies constituting 72.4% of cases in the region. Sexual practices constitute a significant risk factor for HPV infections.

Aim This comprehensive literature analysis seeks to evaluate the prevalence of HPV and its notable risk factors in women aged 12 to 40 years in Saudi Arabia.

Methods The review methodology adhered to PRISMA recommendations, emphasising inclusion criteria for papers containing primary and secondary data for individuals at risk for HPV. The review utilised the POE framework for database searches, extracting data from 8 electronic databases, including Educational Research Information Centre (ERIC), Academic Search Complete, PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), SCOPUS, Science Direct, and Web of Science. The CASP critical appraisal technique was employed to evaluate the risk of bias in the selected studies.

Results Eleven papers fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with 90% being cross-sectional and one being a cohort study. The prevalence rates of HPV in Saudi Arabia varied between 5.9% and 31.6%. Principal risk factors encompassed insufficient understanding of HPV vaccination, the knowledge of healthcare providers, and sociodemographic variables. Identified effective strategies included educational programs, regular HPV screening, and focused public health initiatives.

Conclusion The review finds that HPV is a complex concern with diverse risk factors shaped by regional and sociodemographic variables. Additional investigation is required to examine the influence of sexual behaviours and sociodemographic factors on HPV transmission. This will facilitate the formulation and execution of public health policies to enhance HPV prevention and health outcomes in Saudi Arabia.