TITLE:
Screening Strategies for Precancerous Cervical Lesions in Women at the Departmental University Hospital Center of Oueme Using HPV Testing in 2025
AUTHORS:
Ingrid Olowo, Mathieu Ogoudjobi, Moufalilou Aboubakar, Patrice Dangbèmey, Tchimon Yéa Sètchégnon Vodounhè, Justin Lewis Denakpo
KEYWORDS:
Precancerous Lesions, Cervix, 3T Approach, Oueme-Benin
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Vol.16 No.1,
January
13,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Cervical cancer remains a major public health problem. Its prevention is possible through the 3T approach. Objective: To study the 3T approach at the Ouemé Departmental University Hospital Center in 2025. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study with an analytical and prospective aim, conducted from May 15 to November 2025. The study population consisted of women aged 25 to 65 years residing in the municipality of Porto-Novo. Informed consent and anonymity were ensured. Exhaustive sampling was used. HPV testing was performed and complemented by visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and Lugol’s iodine (VILI), coupled with colposcopy, followed by biopsy and histological examination when pathological findings were present. Data were collected over three months. Analysis was carried out using Epi Info software version 7.1.3.3, and tables were produced using Microsoft Excel version 2018. Results: Among the 321 women recruited, 26 had positive HPV tests, giving a prevalence of 8.10%. The mean age was 42.52 ± 11.52 years, with a range of 25 - 65 years. The most represented age group was 25 - 34 years (28.44%), followed by 35 - 44 years (26.88%). Educational levels were secondary (34.58%), primary (23.36%), higher education (19.31%), and no formal education (22.74%). Most participants were traders (44.55%), multigravida (79.44%), and multiparous (75.70%). Among the 26 HPV-positive women, colposcopy combined with VIA/VILI was positive in 65.40% and negative in 34.60%. Nine biopsies were performed, yielding the following results: 19.23% CIN 1, 3.84% CIN 2, 7.69% CIN 3, and one case of advanced-stage cancer (3.84%). Treatments included thermocoagulation (6 cases), hysterectomy (2 cases), and chemotherapy. Conclusion: HPV testing, complemented by VIA/VILI and colposcopy, is an effective strategy for identifying women at risk of cervical cancer and providing appropriate treatment. The 3T approach is an effective tool for eradicating cervical cancer and reducing maternal mortality.