Early age of sexual debut as a risk factor for sexual behaviors that increase the risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

Objective: To examine associations between sexual debut and sexual behaviors that increase risk of HPV infection. Background: HPV is the most common sexually transmitted viral infection. Oncogenic HPV types are the primary etiological cause of cervical cancer. Early age of sexual debut may lead to early exposure to HPV, and risky sexual practices that increase the risk of persistent HPV infection. Methods: Females attending a large university completed self-administered surveys and gynecological exams biannually for the duration of their college experience. This study is a secondary data analysis of the baseline data collected to date. Independent t-test and logistic regression were performed. Results: Sexually experienced college females (n=394) <18 years old at sexual debut reported more lifetime vaginal (4.38 ± 4.23SD, p<0.001), oral (3.38± 3.59SD, p=0.002), and anal (0.27± 0.56SD, p=0.007) sex partners, compared to those who were 18+ years old at sex initiation, 2.38(± 3.71), 1.96(± 1.64SD), and 0.04(± 0.20SD) respectively. Females who debuted in adolescence reported more vaginal/anal sex partners [2.74(± 1.16SD)] in the last six months than those who were 18+ years old [2.47(± 1.02SD)], p=0.035. Females who debuted in adolescence were more likely to report that partner did not use a condom at last sex (OR=1.90, 95% CI 1.11-3.23) and more likely to have a positive HPV test at baseline (OR=2.80, 95% CI 1.61-4.86) compared to those who were 18+ years old. Discussion: Initiation of sex in adolescence may contribute to sexual practices among college females that increase risk of being exposed to oncogenic HPV types.