International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

People living with Aids are at an increased risk of developing human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancers, it has been reported.

According to research conducted by the Infections and Immunoepidemiology Branch at the US National Cancer Institute, published in Journal of the National Cancer Institute, the dangers increase as the level of immunosuppression rises.

Dr Anil K Chaturvedi and colleagues found that Aids patients are statistically more likely to develop cancers of the anus, cervix, oropharynx, penis, vagina, and vulva

"Given that individuals currently infected with HIV may obtain little benefit from available HPV vaccines... our results underscore the need for effective screening for cervical cancer and anal cancer among persons with HIV infection or AIDS," they noted.

Last month, Annabel Kanabus, director of HIV and Aids charity Avert, claimed international governments were concentrating too much on treating patients rather than investing in prevention policies.

She reported that for every two people having treatment, there are an additional three being infected.