The Rate of HPV Infection Among Women in Masvingo Province Zimbabwe

Abstract

The frequency of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections in women in Zimbabwe's Masvingo Province is examined in this dissertation between August 2023 and August 2024. Given that HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer, which raises the death rate for women in Zimbabwe, the study tackles an important public health concern. The prevalence of infections is still significant even with HPV immunizations and screening programs available, especially in areas with little resources. There was a cross sectional study that focuses on women between the ages of 18 and 65. It seeks to ascertain the infection rates, pinpoint the demographic variables that impact these rates, gauge public awareness and understanding of HPV, and review current healthcare services for management and prevention. The study also looks for obstacles to efficient immunization and screening. It is anticipated that the results would shed important light on the HPV epidemiology in the area and emphasize the necessity of focused public health initiatives. This study intends to close the current knowledge gaps in order to enhance HPV management techniques and educate healthcare policy, which would ultimately help lower the prevalence of cervical cancer in Masvingo Province. Our finding revealed an elevated incidence of HPV among young, unmarried women suggests an increased likelihood of HPV-related health problems in these populations. With 70% awareness but only 60% screening rates, it is evident that further attempts must be made to turn HPV awareness into action by readily available and cheap screening programs. Targeting socio-demographic gaps in screening access and understanding may improve the efficacy of these initiatives.