Prevalence, Associated Factors of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis and Antifungal Susceptibility Patterns among Non-Pregnant Women who Attended Gynecology Clinic at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital
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Date
2023-12
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Kampala International University; Faculty of Cinical Medicine and Dentistry
Abstract
Background: The first isolated C. albicans specimens were discovered in the nineteenth century ( James A. et al. 2008). 75% of women develop VVC at least once in their lifetime (Denning et al., 2018). Candida is a benign commensal of a host of vaginal epithelial tissues. However, a variety of factors might make it have a pathogenic effect (antibiotics, diabetes, bacterial vaginosis, prior vaginal infections, age etc.). (Bitew et al.2018). Factors associated with VVC differ region by region according to sociodemographic characteristics and other factors (Arfiputri et al., 2018). In Uganda, there is an increase in resistance of conventional antifungal drugs (fluconazole and itraconazole) to non-Albicans sp. among pregnant women (Mukasa et al., 2015). This study investigates VVC among 278 women attending Hoima Regional Referral Hospital in Uganda, aiming to comprehend its prevalence, associated factors, and antifungal sensitivity patterns.
Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed, using questionnaires and laboratory analyses. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, and logistic regression were used for data analysis.
Results: The study found a VVC prevalence of 27.70%, with significant associations noted between VVC and age, HIV status, hormonal contraceptive use, and previous VVC. HIV-positive status emerged as a robust predictor of VVC, emphasizing the importance of integrated care. Antifungal sensitivity patterns underscore the need for tailored treatment approaches based on local resistance profiles.
Conclusion: This study provides critical insights into VVC epidemiology, risk factors, and management. The findings highlight the necessity of integrated healthcare models, awareness campaigns, provider training, and improved antifungal accessibility. By emphasizing the importance of translating research into policies and recommending further studies, this research contributes to advancing women's reproductive health and VVC management practice.
Keywords: vulvovaginal candidiasis, prevalence, associated factors, and susceptibility patterns