Human papillomavirus, gonorrhea, syphilis, and cervical dysplasia in jailed women.

We assessed the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) by cervicovaginal lavage and Southern blot and inquired about behavioral risk factors for cervical disease and sexually transmitted diseases by interview in 114 female detainees at a large New York City jail. Of the women screened, 8% had abnormal Pap smears, 35% had HPV, 7% had gonorrhea, and 22% had serologic syphilis. Given the high rates of HPV infection and cervical cytology, Pap smears should be a routine intake procedure for incarcerated women.