RESUMEN
In order to assess the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, the HPV genotypes and factors associated with infection, we conducted a population-based survey in a small municipality in north east Brazil among women aged between 12 and 49 years. A questionnaire regarding socioeconomic variables, reproductive life and sexual behaviour was used, and women were examined gynaecologically, followed by collection of vaginal lavage with saline solution for HPV DNA determination. HPV DNA was detected by the Digene(®) SHARP Signal(TM)-System, and further genotyped by INNO-LiPA Genotyping System(®). Of 579 women, HPV infection was present in 68 (prevalence: 11.7%; 95% CI: 9.3-14.7). The most common HPV types were 16, 31 and 74, each accounting for 14.7% of infections. Of all HPV-positive women, 35.3% showed multiple HPV genotypes. Variables independently associated with HPV infection were: ≥3 partners in life (adjusted OR [aOR]: 3.06; 95% CI: 1.68-5.60) and the use of oral contraception in the last 12 months (aOR: 2.39; 95% CI: 1.33-4.30). Previous participation in a cervical cancer screening programme was protective (aOR: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.13-0.60). HPV infection is common among women from rural Brazil, and HPV genotypes identified indicate that immunization could be an important preventive measure in this population.