Cancer and HIV
Some cancers are more common in people living with HIV than in the general population. One of the reasons may be that HIV makes it harder to control certain cancer-causing viruses, such as the human papilloma virus and the hepatitis C virus.
Kaposi's sarcoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and cervical cancer are 3 types of cancer that are more commonly found in people living with HIV than people who are not infected. The diagnosis of these cancers may indicate the progression of HIV infection to AIDS. Symptoms include lesions on the face or body, night sweats, and severe weight loss.
Prostate cancer is also more common among people living with HIV, particularly older males. There is also a link between length of HIV infection and risk of prostate cancer. Therefore, prostate cancer screening is important and is likely to become more commonplace.
In addition, cervical and anal carcinoma are more common among people living with HIV, and there is an increased risk for smoking related cancers.
Cancer can be hard to treat in people with HIV because of their weaker immune systems and the low
white blood cell
counts caused by the disease. Treatment usually includes surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
The more you communicate with your doctor and work together to manage your health, the better. Talk with them about what you can do to lower your cancer risk with prevention measures and early detection screenings. Be sure to discuss your family's medical history and how certain behaviors (such as unprotected sex and sharing needles for injection drug use) may increase your cancer risk.
