Even before introduction of HIV into West Africa, cervical cancer was the most common malignancy among women, being two times as common as the next most frequent cancer (breast). Since cancer, precancer (CIN), HPV infection (the presumed causal agent of cervical cancer and CIN) are all known to be increased in the presence of impaired immunity, we postulate that with the spread of HIV 1 and 2, cervical cancer and CIN are becoming even increasingly more common. In order to assess the potential magnitude of such a problem and study the role of HIV 1 and 2 as risk factors for cervical cancer and CIN in this region, we propose a cross sectional and longitudinal study of Senegalese prostitutes with and without HIV and HPV. We will study the relationship of cervical cancer, precancer and cervical infection with specific types of HPV to HIV 1 and 2 and immunosuppression. Subjects will be interviewed regarding basic demographic characteristics, sexual behavior and history and medical history. A general physical exam and a detailed genital exam will be performed. Blood will be collected for T cell subsets and testing for antibodies to HIV 1 and 2 as well as HSV 1 and 2. Cervical samples will be collected for cytology and detection of HPV DNA.
| Heitzinger, K; Sow, P S; Dia Badiane, N M et al. (2012) Trends of HIV-1, HIV-2 and dual infection in women attending outpatient clinics in Senegal, 1990-2009. Int J STD AIDS 23:710-6 |
| Seck, A C; Faye, M A; Critchlow, C W et al. (1994) Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and human papillomavirus infection among Senegalese women seropositive for HIV-1 or HIV-2 or seronegative for HIV. Int J STD AIDS 5:189-93 |
