Cytology and HPV testing in cervical cancer screening; factors determining persistence and clearance

Introduction: In our study, the factors determining persistence and clearance were questioned by cytology and HPV testing in cervical cancer screening. We tried to determine the relationship between persistence and variables such as gravida, parity, early sexual intercourse, multiple sexual partners, history of oral contraceptive use, history of condom use, history of smoking and alcohol use. Thus, by determining the factors affecting the persistence of HPV, it was tried to determine the patient groups that should be carefully screened and treated. Clinical Institution: Cukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynecology and Oncology Unit. Materials and methods: The study includes female patients who applied to Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynecology-Oncology outpatient clinic between 2008-2018. The patients in the study were selected among the patients who applied to our clinic and were screened by cytology and HPV test. Cytology and HPV screening were performed again in these patients. The patients were examined in two groups as persistent and non-persistent. Age, age at first intercourse, age at marriage, gravida, parity, education status, age at first intercourse, multiple sexual partners, history of smoking and alcohol use, history of sexually transmitted diseases, history of oral contraceptive and condom use, HPV vaccine history and history of multivitamin use were questioned with a survey. The data we obtained from here were coded and transferred to the computer environment. Necessary statistical evaluations were made and a final report was prepared. Benefits: In line with the data obtained as a result of our study, the factors affecting persistence and clearance will be determined in the screenings performed with HPV test and cytology in cervical cancer screening. In the light of the information obtained, patients will be informed about the factors affecting the persistence of HPV, and about lifestyle changes. It is planned to determine the ways of protection from cervical cancer and its precursor lesions by increasing the patients commitment to screening and follow-up, and reducing the factors that may cause persistence with lifestyle changes. Finding: There was no significant difference between the persistent and non-persistent groups in terms of age, age at first intercourse, age at marriage, gravida, educational status, oral contraceptive use, smoking and alcohol use, HPV vaccine and multivitamin use. However, there was a significant difference in terms of persistence in patients with multiple sexual partners (p:0.056). In our study, persistence was found to be significantly higher in women who gave birth 2 or more times (p:0.031). In addition, persistence was found to be statistically significantly less in patients who regularly use condoms (p:0.037). Results: It has been understood that multiple sexual partners and high parity are risk factors for HPV persistence, and condom use is protective against HPV persistence. Due to the limited number of patients participating in the study, it is recommended to re-examine other factors. Keywords: Cervical Cancer, HPV, Persistence, Clearance.