Objective To analyze the prevalence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) among women participating in cervical cancer screening in Naidong district, Shannan, Xizang autonomous region and factors associated with it, so as to provide scientific evidence for developing strategies of cervical cancer prevention and control in this place and other similar areas with limited health resources by identifying high-risk populations.

Methods Women aged 25 − 64 who underwent cervical cancer screening in Naidong district of Shannan city, Xizang were recruited from May to November 2023. Questionnaire survey and HPV testing were used to analyze the prevalence of high-risk HPV and risk factors associated with it. Statistical analysis was conducted by SPSS version 26.0. Univariate analysis was performed throughg t-tests or chi-square tests (χ²), while multivariate analysis was conducted through logistic regression models.

Results A total of 10 530 women were involved in our study, among whom 1 307 tested positive for HPV, resulting in an overall infection rate of 12.4% (1 307/10 530). The infection rate of HPV types 16 and 18 was 1.9% (203/10 530), while the rate of other 12 high-risk HPV types was 12.3% (1 300/10 530). The infection rates exhibited a bimodal distribution, with peaks observed in the age groups of 25 − 29 (13.7%) and 55 − 59 (15.8%). Univariate analysis indicated that age, marital status, occupation, smoking history, age at first sexual intercourse, reaching menopause or not, and condom use were statistically significant different between the groups with and without high-risk HPV infection (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that being married and employed as a public servant were protective factors, while smoking history and being menopausal were risk factors (P < 0.05).

Conclusion This study reveals that prevalence of high-risk HPV infection among women in Naidong district of Shannan city, Tibet, is relatively higher than that of national level. Women aged 25 − 29 and 55 − 59, along with those having smoking history and reaching menopause, are at increased risk of high-risk HPV infection. Therefore, cervical cancer screening efforts should prioritize these high-risk groups to enhance both screening efficiency and accuracy. Moreover, knowledge dissemination of sexual health and cervical cancer prevention, and promoting healthy lifestyle targeting these populations are crucial for reducing high-risk HPV infection rates and associated disease risks.