Factors associated with precancerous cervical lesions in HIV-positive women: a retrospective cross-sectional study at a clinic in Eswatini

Abstract

Women living with HIV (WLHIV) are at increased risk of developing precancerous cervical lesions due to immunosuppression and persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Cervical cancer remains the fourth most common cancer among women globally, with a disproportionate burden in sub-Saharan Africa. Eswatini faces a dual burden of high HIV prevalence and cervical cancer incidence, yet screening uptake remains low. Limited research has examined the relationship between antiretroviral therapy (ART), immune status, and precancerous cervical lesions among WLHIV in the country. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions and identify associated factors among WLHIV attending a clinic in Mbabane, Eswatini