An Opportunistic Screening Approach for Pre- Cancerous Lesions of Cervix in Asymptomatic Postnatal Women Using Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid and Visual Inspection with Lugol's Iodine - A Cross- Sectional Study

Abstract Background: Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women, with India contributing nearly one-fourth of global cases. In 2020, about 6,04,000 women were diagnosed and 3,42,000 died. Limited cytology-based screening in resource-poor settings underscores the need for cost-effective alternatives like VIA and VILI, recommended by WHO. Aim: To evaluate VIA and VILI as opportunistic screening methods for detecting precancerous cervical lesions in asymptomatic postnatal women. Methods: Postnatal women attending routine checkups or newborn immunization clinics were recruited after informed consent. VIA and VILI were performed to detect cervical precancerous lesions. Clinical, systemic, and per vaginal examinations were conducted. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0, with diagnostic accuracy assessed. Ethical approval and participant confidentiality were ensured. Results: Among 800 women screened, VIA detected 4.88% positives and VILI 4.75%, showing strong concordance. Both tests significantly correlated with low socioeconomic status and higher parity, especially grand multiparity. No significant links with age, delivery mode, or HPV vaccination, confirming VIA/VILI as effective, feasible screening tools. Conclusion: VIA and VILI are effective, affordable, and practical screening methods for detecting cervical precancerous lesions in postpartum women. Integrating screening into routine postnatal visits can enhance coverage, support WHO’s universal goals, and improve cervical cancer prevention in low-resource settings.