Viewing Native American Cervical Cancer Disparities through the Lens of the Vaginal Microbiome: A Pilot Study.

ABSTRACT: Vaginal dysbiosis is implicated in persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer. Yet, there is a paucity of data on the vaginal microbiome in Native American communities. Here, we aimed to elucidate the relationships between microbiome, HPV, sociodemographic, and behavioral risk factors to better understand an increased cervical cancer risk in Native American women. In this pilot study, we recruited 31 participants (16 Native American and 15 non-Native women) in Northern Arizona and examined vaginal microbiota composition, HPV status, and immune mediators. We also assessed individuals' sociodemographic information and physical, mental, sexual, and reproductive health. Overall, microbiota profiles were dominated by common Lactobacillus species (associated with vaginal

SUBMITTER: Laniewski P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11532753 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature