Anal HPV Higher in Men who have Sex with Men

A recent study conducted by researchers from St. James's Hospital in Dublin shows that there is a much higher rate of anal human papillomavirus (HPV) in men who have sex with men.

Researchers examined a sample of 194 HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM patients in order to better identify the molecular epidemiology of HPV.  They collected anal sample swabs from all patients using a technique known as polymerase chain reaction assay to better study the infection. All patients were 18 and up.

Findings showed that 113 of the individuals tested positive for HPV, with around 42 percent carrying a high-risk strain of virus.

Seventeen percent of the participants also showed a more high-risk strand of HPV, which was typically more prevalent in those 30 and older. The findings indicate that HIV-positive individuals are more likely to have any detectable HPV, high-risk HPV 18 or 31, and to be infected with more than one type of HPV.

"Emerging patterns of HPV-related disease strengthen the call for universal vaccination of boys and girls with consideration of catch-up and targeted vaccination of high-risk groups such as MSM and those with HIV infection," said lead study author Corinna Sadlier, M.D., of the hospital, via Health Day.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the journal HIV Medicine.