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However, no such data are available for Pakistan yet, and neither HPV vaccination nor anal-cytology screening is implemented in Pakistan. The purpose of this first ever study was to assess the prevalence of HPV-related anal cytological abnormalities among MSM and transgender women living with and without HIV infection in Pakistan. The study enrolled MSM and transgender women aged greater-than-and-equal-toyears who reported anal sex in the preceding 6 months.
We collected two anal samples for liquid-based cytology and HPV type testing by PCR, and socio-demographic and behavioral data were collected through face-to face interviews. The mean age was The overall, HPV16 positivity was Abnormal anal cytology among MSM and transgender is prevalent enough to consider optimal screening regimens.
Further studies are required to see if periodic anal cytology can be made part of HIV care and treatment programs among MSM in Pakistan.
Persistent infection with Human Papillomavirus HPV βpredominantly high-risk HPV type 16 is the major cause of anal cancer [ 1 ] Over the past decade, the global incidence of anal squamous cell carcinoma SCC , is rare and stable in the general population [ 2 ] however, it is 20 times more likely to occur in men who have sex with men MSM [ 3 , 4 ] compared to heterosexual men [ 5 ]. The risk of anal cancer is highest in MSM living with HIV [ 4 , 6 β 8 ], other individuals living with HIV [ 9 ], immunosuppressed individuals [ 10 ], and women with history of HPV associated anogenital dysplasia [ 11 ].
