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 is associated with gynecologic malignancy and cervical cancer among women worldwide. In the current study we sought to determine the prevalence 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, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar, Iranmedex, and Scientific Information Database. Statistical analysis was performed by Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (V2.2, Biostat) software. Random effects models were used by taking into account the possibility of the heterogeneity between the 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 with cervical infections. The further stratified analyses indicated that the prevalence rate of HPV was higher in the studies conducted during the 2000-2008 years. Conclusion: The results of the present study underscore the need for further enforcement of STD control strategies in Iran. Establishing advanced diagnostic facilities for HPV, vaccination of high risk groups, and continuous monitoring of HPV are recommended for HPV prevention and control.