Endocrine Abstracts

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted viruses in reproductive age. About 80% of women will get at least one type of HPV at some point in their lifetime. Pregnancy is highly susceptible because decreased immunity during this period. There are few studies available from Indian sub-continent indicating a link between HPV infection and pregnancy. Association with various demographic factors in women would help in categorising those women who are more vulnerable to the disease.

Objective: The Objective was to study association of features of Metabolic Syndrome with HPV infection in both the groups. Secondary objective of this study was to find out prevalence of HPV infection in non-pregnant vs pregnant women.

Material and Method: This was a prospective cohort study, at a tertiary level institution in an out-patient setting. We recruited 200 women in two groups:- 1. Non pregnant women in reproductive age (n=100) and pregnant women (n=100) after consent clearance. Clinical history and examination was documented. Cervical swab samples(in non-pregnant women) and High Vaginal Swab (in pregnant women) used for the detection of HPV DNA infection by using the hybrid capture technique. Prevalence in both groups was calculated and association of features of Metabolic Syndrome like PCO, Obesity, Presence of Prediabetes or diabetes. GDM, studied with respect to each group.

Result: The Study revealed prevalence in two groups was significantly different in two groups. (9% in Group 1 vs 16% in group 2). In Group 2, apart from nutritional and socioeconomic status, co-morbid ailments like Diabetes, Obesity played a significant role.

Conclusion: Our study concluded that HPV prevalence is higher in pregnant women than non- pregnant women being associated with features of Metabolic Syndrome.