Oral HPV Study

This study is conducted by KEMRI Kar-Geno in collaboration with the NRHS at the Anza Mapema Centre of Excellence in Kisumu, Kenya.

Long Title of the Study:
Prevalence, Persistence, and Risk Factors of Oral Human Papillomavirus in HIV-Positive and At-Risk HIV-Negative Men in Southwestern Kenya

Background:
Oral Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, especially persistent oncogenic strains, is recognized as a significant risk factor for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Although these cancers are less common than cervical cancer, their association with HPV makes them susceptible to similar preventative measures. In sub-Saharan Africa, there is currently insufficient data on the epidemiology and natural history of oral HPV infection. Despite the high burden of HIV, which increases the risk of both HPV infection and HPV-related cancers, the region still lacks comprehensive studies to explore the incidence, clearance, and persistence of oral HPV. Given the widespread prevalence of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, understanding these dynamics is of critical importance.

Objective:
This study is evaluating the prevalence, incidence, persistence, and risk factors of oral HPV infection among HIV-positive and at-risk HIV-negative men in southwestern Kenya. The goal is to generate valuable data to guide future HPV prevention interventions in this high-risk group.

Methods:
We are conducting a prospective cohort study with 398 HIV-positive and at-risk HIV-negative men, aged 18 and older, from southwestern Kenya. Participants are being followed semi-annually over a 24-month period. Sociodemographic and behavioral data are being collected alongside oral samples. The oral samples are being taken using a validated sampling method, similar to cervical-vaginal lavage sampling. HPV DNA is being extracted and analyzed using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to detect and genotype HPV. We are currently categorizing HPV infections as either incident, persistent, or cleared by the final visit.

Expected Outcomes:
The study provides essential insights into the epidemiology and natural progression of oral HPV infections in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative men. The findings are expected to help inform the development of targeted HPV prevention strategies, such as vaccination and screening, tailored to the needs of high-risk populations.