Cervical determinants of anal HPV infection and high-grade anal lesions in women: a collaborative pooled analysis

The risk of vaginal, vulvar and anal precancer and cancer according to high-risk HPV status in cervical cytology samples

High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) is the cause of virtually all cervical cancers, most vaginal and anal cancers, and some vulvar cancer cases. With HPV testing becoming the primary screening method for cervical cancer, understanding the link between cervical hrHPV infection and the risk of other anogenital cancers is crucial. We assessed the risk of vulvar, vaginal and anal cancer and precancer (VIN2+, VaIN2+ and AIN2+) in a prospective cohort study including 455,349 women who underwent cervical hrHPV testing in Denmark from 2005 to 2020. We employed Cox proportional hazard models, adjusting for age, calendar year and HPV vaccination status, and estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). We used the Aalen Johansen estimator to calculate the absolute risks of VIN2+, VaIN2+ and AIN2+. In total, 15% of the women were hrHPV positive at baseline. A positive cervical hrHPV test was associated with increased incidence of vulvar, vaginal and anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Five-year risk estimates of VIN2+, VaIN2+ and AIN2+ among hrHPV-positive women (0.45%, 0.14% and 0.12%) were higher than among hrHPV-negative women (0.14%, 0.01% and 0.05%). Particularly high risk was observed among the hrHPV-positive women of the oldest age, with a history of anogenital precancer and those not HPV vaccinated. In conclusion, our study confirms the association between cervical hrHPV infection and non-cervical anogenital precancers and cancers. Currently, no established risk threshold or guidelines for follow-up. As HPV testing becomes the primary method for cervical cancer screening, future data will help define high-risk groups and acceptable risk thresholds.

International Anal Neoplasia Society's consensus guidelines for anal cancer screening

The International Anal Neoplasia Society (IANS) developed consensus guidelines to inform anal cancer screening use among various high-risk groups. Anal cancer incidence estimates by age among risk groups provided the basis to identify risk thresholds to recommend screening. Guided by risk thresholds, screening initiation at age 35 years was recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW) with HIV. For other people with HIV and MSM and TW not with HIV, screening initiation at age 45 years was recommended. For solid organ transplant recipients, screening initiation beginning from 10 years post-transplant was recommended. For persons with a history of vulvar precancer or cancer, screening initiation was recommended starting within 1 year of diagnosis of vulvar precancer or cancer. Persons aged ≥45 years with a history of cervical/vaginal HSIL or cancer, perianal warts, persistent (>1 year) cervical HPV16, or autoimmune conditions could be considered for screening with shared decision-making, provided there is adequate capacity to perform diagnostic procedures (high-resolution anoscopy [HRA]). Anal cytology, high-risk (hr) human papillomavirus (HPV) testing (including genotyping for HPV16), and hrHPV-cytology co-testing are different strategies currently used for anal cancer screening that show acceptable performance. Thresholds for referral for HRA or follow-up screening tests are delineated. These recommendations from IANS provide the basis to inform management of abnormal screening results, considering currently available screening tools. These guidelines provide a pivotal foundation to help generate consensus among providers and inform the introduction and implementation of risk-targeted screening for anal cancer prevention.

Trends in epidemiology and primary treatment of anal squamous cell carcinoma in the Netherlands (1990-2021)

A rapid increase in the incidence of anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) was reported in several countries over the past decades. This study assessed trends in epidemiology and primary treatment over a 32-year period (1990-2021) using the Netherlands Cancer Registry. The study population included 4273 patients, 44.2% male and 55.8% female (median age 63 years). The age-standardised incidence rate (European Standardised Rate, ESR) increased from 0.5 to 1.6 per 100,000, which entailed an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of 5.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.5%-5.8%). While incidence among females increased continuously over the total period (AAPC 4.9%; 95%CI: 4.4%-5.6%), to 1.8 per 100,000 ESR in 2021, incidence among males increased until 2016 (annual percentage change [APC] of 6.3%; 95%CI: 5.6%-10.7%), after which it seemed to stabilise (APC -2.1%; 95%CI: -16.8%-4.5%). Significant trends were also observed in distribution of age, tumour stage and primary treatment modalities. Five-year relative survival (RS) was estimated using the Pohar-Perme estimator, and this improved from 56.1% in 1990-1997 (95%CI: 49.3%-62.4%) to 67.9% in 2014-2021 (95%CI: 64.7%-70.9%), but remained poor for stage IV disease. Evaluation through a multivariable Poisson regression model demonstrated diagnosis in the most recent period to be independently associated with better RS, in addition to female sex, younger age, early disease stage and any treatment. In conclusion, the rising incidence of anal SCC seems to decline in males, but not in females, and advances in diagnostics and therapeutic management have likely contributed to improved prognosis.

Two-Year Incidence and Cumulative Risk and Predictors of Anal High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions (Anal Precancer) Among Women With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

BACKGROUND

Detection and treatment of anal histologic high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (hHSIL) prevents anal cancer. However, anal hHSIL incidence among women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, WHIV) remains unknown. Performance of anal high-risk human papillomavirus ([hr]HPV), anal cytology (anal-cyt), and both for hHSIL detection longitudinally over 2 years also remains undetermined.

METHODS

We determined 2-year incidence and cumulative risk estimates (2-y-CR) of anal hHSIL among WHIV using prevalence and incidence (per 100 person-years [py]) observations stratified by baseline hrHPV and/or anal-cyt results.

RESULTS

In total, 229 WHIV with complete baseline data were included in the analysis; 114 women without prevalent anal hHSIL were followed with 2 annual evaluations. Median age was 51, 63% were Black, and 23% were Hispanic. Anal hrHPV or abnormal anal-cyt was associated with an increased risk of incident anal hHSIL at 2 years (18.9/100py [95% confidence interval {CI} 11.4-31.3] and 13.4/100py [95% CI 8.0-22.7], respectively) compared with no detection of anal HPV or negative cytology (2.8/100py [95% CI 1.1-7.4] and 4.2 [95% CI, 1.8-10.2]) The presence of anal hrHPV with abnormal cytology was associated with 2-y-CR of anal hHSIL of 65.6% (95% CI 55.4%-75%); negative hrHPV with negative cytology was associated with 2-y-CR of anal hHSIL of 9.2% (95% CI 7.0-16.0).

CONCLUSIONS

Detection of anal hrHPV or abnormal anal cytology are comparable predictors for 2-y-CR of anal hHSIL. The absence of anal hrHPV combined with negative cytology was predictive of a lower (but measurable) risk of developing anal hHSIL. These findings provide important data to inform anal cancer screening guidelines for WHIV.

HPV and Cervical Cancer: Molecular and Immunological Aspects, Epidemiology and Effect of Vaccination in Latin American Women

Cervical cancer is primarily caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection and remains a significant public health concern, particularly in Latin American regions. This comprehensive narrative review addresses the relationship between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, focusing on Latin American women. It explores molecular and immunological aspects of HPV infection, its role in cervical cancer development, and the epidemiology in this region, highlighting the prevalence and diversity of HPV genotypes. The impact of vaccination initiatives on cervical cancer rates in Latin America is critically evaluated. The advent of HPV vaccines has presented a significant tool in combating the burden of this malignancy, with notable successes observed in various countries, the latter due to their impact on immune responses. The review synthesizes current knowledge, emphasizes the importance of continued research and strategies for cervical cancer prevention, and underscores the need for ongoing efforts in this field.

The Epidemiology of Anal Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in HIV-Positive and HIV-Negative Women and Men: A Ten-Year Retrospective Observational Study in Rome (Italy)

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) commonly infect the anogenital mucosa; most infections are transient, but a fraction of those caused by high-risk (HR) types persist and may lead to anogenital cancer. The epidemiology of HPV genotypes in anal infections in groups at different risk for anal cancer has not been well described in Italy. This retrospective study reports the results of HPV DNA testing and complete genotyping performed on anal swabs from 691 female and male patients attending proctology clinics in Rome during 2012-2021; one-third had repeated testing. Cumulative HPV positivity in 1212 anal swabs was approximately 60%, was not age related, and showed an increasing trend over the study period. HPV rates differed significantly by sex and HIV status: HIV-negative women had the lowest (43.6%) and HIV-positive men the highest (83.5%) HPV prevalence. HIV-positive men had more oncogenic HPV genotypes detected, more multiple infections, and the highest frequency of persistent infections. Two-thirds of all infections were vaccine-preventable. This study found that anal HPV infection rates are still elevated and even increasing in groups at low and high risk of developing anal cancer. Prevention programs need to be improved to reduce rates of anal infection in young women and men.

Incidence of Anal Cancer and Related Risk Factors in HIV-Infected Patients Enrolled in the National Prospective Spanish Cohort CoRIS

BACKGROUND

People living with HIV have an increased risk of anal cancer.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate anal cancer incidence and related risk factors in a national cohort of HIV-infected patients.

DESIGN

Prospective multicenter cohort study.

SETTINGS

Multicenter study including patients from the Spanish HIV Research Network.

PATIENTS

We collected data from 16,274 HIV-infected treatment-naive adults recruited from January 2004 to November 2020.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES

The primary outcome measures of this study were the incidence and prevalence of anal carcinoma. The secondary outcome measures included the associations between baseline and time-dependent covariables and the primary end point.

RESULTS

Twenty-six cases of anal cancer were diagnosed, 22 of which were incident cases resulting in a cumulative incidence of 22.29 of 100,000 person-years, which was stable during the study period. At the end of the study, 20 of the 43 centers had screening programs for high-grade anal dysplasia. Patients with anal cancer were males (26/26; 100% vs 13,833/16,248; 85.1%), were mostly men who have sex with men (23/26; 88.5% vs 10,017/16,248; 61.6%), had a median age of 43 years (interquartile range, 35-51), were more frequently previously diagnosed with an AIDS-defining illness (9/26; 34.6% vs 2429/16,248; 15%), and had lower nadir CD4 cell counts (115 vs 303 µL). About a third (34.6%, 9/26) were younger than 35 years. In multivariable analysis, men who have sex with men and patients with previous AIDS-defining illness had an 8.3-fold (95% CI, 1.9-36.3) and 2.7-fold (95% CI, 1.1-6.6) increased HR for developing anal cancer, respectively. Patients with higher CD4 cell counts during the follow-up showed a 28% lower risk per each additional 100 CD4 cell/µL (95% CI, 41%-22%).

LIMITATIONS

Lack of information on some potential risk factors, screening, and treatment of high-grade anal dysplasia were not uniformly initiated across centers during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the overall incidence in our study was low, there was a significant number of patients younger than 35 years with anal cancer. In addition to age, other factors, such as men who have sex with men and patients with severe immunosuppression (current or past), should be prioritized for anal cancer screening.

INCIDENCIA DEL CNCER DE ANO Y LOS FACTORES DE RIESGO RELACIONADOS CON PACIENTES INFECTADOS POR VIH INCLUIDOS EN LA COHORTE PROSPECTIVA NACIONAL ESPAOLA CORIS

ANTECEDENTES:Las personas portadoras del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana tienen un mayor riesgo de cáncer anal.OBJETIVO:Nosotros queremos estimar la incidencia de cáncer anal y los factores de riesgo relacionados en una cohorte nacional española de pacientes infectados por VIH.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohortes de tipo multicéntrico y prospectivo.ÁMBITO:Se incluyeron pacientes de la Red Española de Investigación en VIH.PACIENTES:Recolectamos los datos de 16,274 adultos infectados por el VIH que nunca habían recibido tratamiento, reclutados desde enero de 2004 hasta noviembre de 2020.MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO PRINCIPALES:Las medidas de resultado primarias de este estudio fueron la incidencia y la prevalencia del carcinoma anal. Las medidas de resultado secundarias incluyeron las asociaciones entre las covariables basales y dependientes del tiempo y el criterio principal de valoración.RESULTADOS:Se diagnosticaron 26 casos de cáncer anal, de los cuales 22 fueron casos incidentales resultando con una incidencia acumulada de 22,29/100.000 personas-año que se mantuvo estable durante el período de estudio.Al final de nuestro estudio, 20 de los 43 centros referentes tenían programas de detección de displasia anal de alto grado. Los pacientes con cáncer anal eran hombres (26/26; 100% vs 13 833/16 248; 85,1%), en su mayoría hombres que mantenían sexo con otros hombres (23/26; 88,5% vs 10 017/16 248; 61,6%), la mediana de edad fue de 43 años (IQR: 3 -51), 34,6% (9/26) < 35 años, previa y frecuentemente diagnosticados con una enfermedad definitoria de SIDA (9/26; 34,6% vs 2429/16248; 15%) y que tenían un punto opuesto mucho más bajo en el recuentos de células CD4 (115 µL frente a 303 µL).En el análisis multivariable, los hombres que tenían relaciones sexuales con otros hombres y los pacientes con enfermedades definitorias de sida anteriores, tenían un aumento de 8,3 veces (IC del 95%: 1,9 a 36,3) y de 2,7 veces (IC del 95%: 1,1 a 6,6) en el cociente de riesgos instantáneos para desarrollar cáncer anal, respectivamente. Los pacientes con recuentos de células CD4 más altos durante el seguimiento mostraron un riesgo 28 % menor por cada 100 células CD4/µl adicionales (95% IC: 41%- 22%).LIMITACIONES:La falta de información sobre algunos factores potenciales de riesgo, la detección y el tratamiento de la displasia anal de alto grado no se iniciaron uniformemente en todos los centros durante el período de estudio.CONCLUSIONES:Si bien la incidencia general en nuestro estudio fue baja, hubo un número significativo de pacientes de <35 años con cáncer anal. Además de la edad, otros factores como los hombres que tienen sexo con hombres y los pacientes con inmunosupresión severa (actual o pasada) deben priorizarse para la detección del cáncer anal. ( Traducción-Dr. Xavier Delgadillo ).

Risk Factors for the Anal and Oral Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infections among Women with Severe Cervical Lesions: A Prospective Case-Control Study

The carcinogenicity of HPV infection in the anogenital and oropharyngeal regions is broadly accepted. The aim of the study was to define risk factors for anal and oral HPV infections in high-risk patients with biopsy-proven severe cervical lesions (CIN2+). Altogether immunocompetent 473 females with CIN2+ were categorized into the study group and another 245 women into the control group. The strongest risk factor for anal HPV infection was the presence of cervical HPV infection (p < 0.001). Furthermore, ten or more lifetime sexual partners (p = 0.013), a sexual non-coital contact with the anal area (p < 0.001), and actively practicing anal-penetrative intercourse (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with anal HPV. A history of genital warts in the woman (p = 0.010) and the presence of genital warts in the male partner (p = 0.029) were found statistically significant for the risk of oral HPV infection. Our data suggest that the presence of HPV infection, especially high-risk genotypes, in one anatomical site poses the greatest risk for HPV infection in another anatomical site. The cervix is the main reservoir of infection, but the risk factors for anal and oral HPV infections are dissimilar according to different anatomical distances and more complex routes of transmission.

ESMO/ASCO Recommendations for a Global Curriculum in Medical Oncology Edition 2023

The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) and ASCO are publishing a new edition of the ESMO/ASCO Global Curriculum (GC) with contributions from more than 150 authors. The purpose of the GC is to provide recommendations for the training of physicians in medical oncology and to establish a set of educational standards for trainees to qualify as medical oncologists. This edition builds on prior ones in 2004, 2010, and 2016 and incorporates scientific advances and input from an ESMO ASCO survey on GC adoption conducted in 2019, which revealed that GC has been adopted or adapted in as many as two thirds of the countries surveyed. To make GC even more useful and applicable, certain subchapters were rearranged into stand-alone chapters, that is, cancer epidemiology, diagnostics, and research. In line with recent progress in the field of multidisciplinary cancer care new (sub)chapters, such as image-guided therapy, cell-based therapy, and nutritional support, were added. Moreover, this edition includes an entirely new chapter dedicated to cancer control principles, aiming to ensure that medical oncologists are able to identify and implement sustainable and equitable cancer care, tailored to local needs and resources. Besides content renewal, modern didactic principles were introduced. GC content is presented using two chapter templates (cancer-specific and non-cancer-specific), with three didactic points (objectives, key concepts, and skills). The next step is promoting GC as a contemporary and comprehensive document applicable all over the world, particularly due to its capacity to harmonize education in medical oncology and, in so doing, help to reduce global disparities in cancer care.

The Clinical Utility of Circulating HPV DNA Biomarker in Oropharyngeal, Cervical, Anal, and Skin HPV-Related Cancers: A Review

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is recognized as being related to a wide variety of known cancers: cervical, oropharyngeal, anal, vaginal, penile, and skin. For some of these cancers, rigorous algorithms for screening, therapeutical interventions, and follow-up procedures have been established. Vaccination using the nonvalent anti-HPV vaccine, which prevents infection regarding the most frequently involved high-risk HPV types (16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58) and low-risk HPV types (6 and 11), has also extensively prevented, controlled, and even eradicated HPV infections. Still, even with all of these multidisciplinary interventions, the burden of HPV cancers is still high worldwide. The circulating DNA of HPV-induced cancers is thought to be an adequate biomarker for optimizing the control of these virus-related cancers. We analyzed the literature published in the last 5 years regarding ctDNA and four of the above-mentioned cancers. The most frequently used assay for ctDNA detection was the droplet digital PCR assay, used for the management of therapy in the late stages of cancer. ctDNA could not be used for early detection in any of the studied cancers. The OPSCCs were the most frequent cancers analyzed via ctDNA assays. Larger, properly designed cohort studies might establish the clinical utility of this biomarker.

Advances in HPV-associated tumor management: Therapeutic strategies and emerging insights

With the rapid increase in the incidence of cervical cancer, anal cancer and other cancers, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has become a growing concern. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV is a major cause of malignant tumors. In addition, microbiota and viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus, herpes simplex virus, and Epstein-Barr virus are closely associated with HPV infection. The limited effectiveness of existing treatments for HPV-associated tumors and the high rates of recurrence and metastasis in patients create an urgent need for novel and effective approaches. In recent years, HPV vaccine coverage has increased and can reduce the incidence of serious adverse events. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of HPV biology, microbiome, and other viral interactions in cancer development, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to cancer prevention and treatment. Current and emerging HPV-related cancer control and treatment strategies are also further explored.

Anal Cancer and Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia Risk among Patients Treated for HPV-Related Gynecological Diseases-A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The most important causative agent of neoplasms in the anogenital area is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Due to the anatomical proximity of the genital and anus area and the ease with which HPV infection is transmitted, it seems that patients after the treatment of HPV-related gynecological diseases may have an increased risk of developing a second HPV-related neoplasm anal cancer. The aim of this study was to determine the risk of anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) and anal cancer (AC) among patients after the treatment of HPV-related gynecological diseases.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive review of the available literature from multiple databases. The study was performed following Cochrane Reviewers' Handbook and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2009 guidelines. Moreover, we assessed the quality of each study using QUADAS-2.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies were included in the final analysis. Patients after the treatment of HPV-related gynecological diseases have a significantly higher risk of AC (mean standardized incidence ratio (SIR) = 5.387, mean incidence risk (IR) = 0.096%, mean IR per 100,000 person-years = 10.37) and AIN (mean IR = 23.683%) compared to the population risk.

CONCLUSIONS

patients with HPV-related gynecological diseases should constitute a group for which an appropriate primary and secondary screening for AC should be introduced.

Diversity of Anal HPV and Non-HPV Sexually Transmitted Infections and Concordance with Genital Infections in HIV-Infected and HIV-Uninfected Women in the Tapajós Region, Amazon, Brazil

The aim of this study was to classify the diversity of anal HPV and non-HPV sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and compare the concordance between anal and genital infections in HIV-infected and uninfected women living in the Tapajós region, Amazon, Brazil. A cross-sectional study was performed with 112 HIV-uninfected and 41 HIV-infected nonindigenous women. Anal and cervical scrapings were collected and analyzed for HPV, Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrheae (NG), Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), and Human alphaherpesvirus 2 (HSV-2). The Kappa test evaluated the concordance between anal and genital infections. The overall prevalence of anal HPV infection was 31.3% in HIV-uninfected and 97.6% in HIV-infected women. The most frequent anal high-risk HPV (hrHPV) types were HPV18 and HPV16 in HIV-uninfected women and HPV51, HPV59, HPV31, and HPV58 in HIV-infected women. Anal HPV75 Betapapillomavirus was also identified. Anal non-HPV STIs were identified in 13.0% of all participants. The concordance analysis was fair for CT, MG, and HSV-2, almost perfect agreement for NG, moderate for HPV, and variable for the most frequent anal hrHPV types. Thus, a high prevalence of anal HPV infection with moderate and fair concordance between anal and genital HPV and non-HPV STIs was observed in our study.

Primary Anal Cancer Screening Results From 381 Women With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

BACKGROUND

Women with human immunodeficiency virus (WWH) have an elevated risk for human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated anal cancer. Primary anal cancer screening results from this population could inform practice guidelines.

METHODS

In total, 381 WWH with anal cytology screening, high-risk HPV (hrHPV) testing and genital (cervical or vaginal) cotesting within 6 months were identified during 2012-2019. Those with anal cytology of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) or worse underwent high-resolution anoscopy and biopsy. Independent predictors of anal hrHPV, HPV16, and histological anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (aHSIL) were identified using adjusted logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Prevalence of anal hrHPV, HPV16, and ASCUS or worse cytology was 61%, 13%, and 68%. Histological aHSIL was detected in 42% of WWH with ASCUS or worse anal cytology. Prevalence of genital hrHPV, HPV16, and ASCUS or worse cytology was 30%, 4%, and 28%. Genital hrHPV predicted anal hrHPV (odds ratio [OR], 5.05), while genital HPV16 predicted anal HPV16 (OR, 9.52). Genital hrHPV and anal HPV16 predicted histological aHSIL (ORs, 2.78 and 10.9).

CONCLUSIONS

Anal HPV disease was highly prevalent in this primary screening cohort of WWH. While genital screening results predicted anal disease, rates of isolated anal HPV disease were substantial, supporting universal anal cancer screening for this population.

Evaluation of anal cytology and human papillomavirus infection in high-risk women: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND Anal cancer incidence has been on the rise over the past few decades. This study aimed to assess anal Papanicolaou (Pap) smear changes in women with high risk for dysplasia and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on 121 patients referred to the Gynecology Oncology Clinic of Imam Hossein Medical Center between 2020 and 2021 in Tehran, Iran, who had cervical and vulvar dysplasia, cervical HPV infection, and abnormal cervical cytology results and were over 21 years old. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software version 21 (IBM Corp., USA) at a significance level of 0.05. RESULTS 121 women, with a mean age of 39.69 years, were included in this study. Overall, 23.1% of women had positive anal HPV results, and 35.5% were over 40 years old. Younger age was associated with an increased risk of anal HPV (p = 0.045). 33.9% of women were single and had a higher risk of anal HPV. Multiple sexual partnerships and anal sex were the significant risk factors for anal cancer (p<0.001). Women with positive anal HPV results had significantly more genital warts (p<0.001). No significant difference was observed in smoking, educational level, and cervical Pap smear results between women with negative and positive rectal HPV results. CONCLUSIONS Younger age at diagnosis, being single, having multiple sexual partnerships, having anal sex, and having genital warts were associated with anal HPV infection in women. Abnormal anal cytology was only associated with being single and having multiple sexual partners.

Anal Cancer: The Past, Present and Future

Anal cancer is a rare cancer that accounts for about 2% of all gastrointestinal tract malignancies. Among anal cancer, squamous cell cancer is the most common malignancy. The incidence of all stages of anal squamous cell cancer has been increasing. Human papillomavirus infection and immunosuppression are major risk factors for anal cancer. The management of anal cancer has evolved over the past several decades and continues to do so. Chemoradiation therapy remains the mainstay for treatment for most patients with early-stage disease, whereas systemic therapy is the primary treatment for patients with metastatic disease. Patients with persistent disease or recurrence following chemoradiation therapy are treated with salvage surgery. Access to novel cytotoxic combinations and immunotherapy has improved the outcomes of patients with advanced disease. This review provides an overview of advances in the management of anal cancer over the past two decades. This paper reviews the epidemiology, risk factors, pathology, diagnosis, and management of localized and advanced anal squamous cell cancer, highlights current knowledge gaps in the management of anal cancer, and discusses future directions.

State Variation in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus Incidence and Mortality, and Association With HIV/AIDS and Smoking in the United States

PURPOSE

Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) incidence and mortality rates are rising in the United States. Understanding state-level incidence and mortality patterns and associations with smoking and AIDS prevalence (key risk factors) could help unravel disparities and provide etiologic clues.

METHODS

Using the US Cancer Statistics and the National Center for Health Statistics data sets, we estimated state-level SCCA incidence and mortality rates. Rate ratios (RRs) were calculated to compare incidence and mortality in 2014-2018 versus 2001-2005. The correlations between SCCA incidence with current smoking (from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System) and AIDS (from the HIV Surveillance system) prevalence were evaluated using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

Nationally, SCCA incidence and mortality rates (per 100,000) increased among men (incidence, 2.29-3.36, mortality, 0.46-0.74) and women (incidence, 3.88-6.30, mortality, 0.65-1.02) age ≥ 50 years, but decreased among men age < 50 years and were stable among similar-aged women. In state-level analysis, a marked increase in incidence (≥ 1.5-fold for men and ≥ two-fold for women) and mortality (≥ two-fold) for persons age ≥ 50 years was largely concentrated in the Midwestern and Southeastern states. State-level SCCA incidence rates in recent years (2014-2018) among men were correlated (r = 0.47, P < .001) with state-level AIDS prevalence patterns. For women, a correlation was observed between state-level SCCA incidence rates and smoking prevalence (r = 0.49, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

During 2001-2005 to 2014-2018, SCCA incidence and mortality nearly doubled among men and women age ≥ 50 years living in Midwest and Southeast. State variation in AIDS and smoking patterns may explain variation in SCCA incidence. Improved and targeted prevention is needed to combat the rise in SCCA incidence and mitigate magnifying geographic disparities.

Age-Specific Prevalence of Anal and Cervical Human Papillomavirus Infection and High-Grade Lesions in 11 177 Women by Human Immunodeficiency Virus Status: A Collaborative Pooled Analysis of 26 Studies

BACKGROUND

Age-specific data on anal, and corresponding cervical, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection are needed to inform female anal cancer prevention.

METHODS

We centrally reanalyzed individual-level data from 26 studies reporting HPV prevalence in paired anal and cervical samples by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status and age. For women with HIV (WWH) with anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or worse (HSIL+), we also investigated concurrent cervical cytopathology.

RESULTS

In HIV-negative women, HPV16 prevalence decreased significantly with age, both at anus (4.3% at 15-24 years to 1.0% at ≥55 years; ptrend = 0.0026) and cervix (7.4% to 1.7%; ptrend < 0.0001). In WWH, HPV16 prevalence decreased with age at cervix (18.3% to 7.2%; ptrend = 0.0035) but not anus (11.5% to 13.9%; ptrend = 0.5412). Given anal HPV16 positivity, concurrent cervical HPV16 positivity also decreased with age, both in HIV-negative women (ptrend = 0.0005) and WWH (ptrend = 0.0166). Among 48 WWH with HPV16-positive anal HSIL+, 27 (56%) were cervical high-risk HPV-positive, including 8 with cervical HPV16, and 5 were cervical HSIL+.

CONCLUSIONS

Age-specific shifts in HPV16 prevalence from cervix to anus suggest that HPV infections in the anus persist longer, or occur later in life, than in the cervix, particularly in WWH. This is an important consideration when assessing the utility of cervical screening results to stratify anal cancer risk.

Natural History of Anal HPV Infection in Women Treated for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

Women with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions/cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (HSIL/CIN) are at high risk of anal human papillomavirus HPV infection, and it has also been suggested that self-inoculation of the virus from the anal canal to the cervix could explain HPV recurrence in the cervix after treatment of HSIL/CIN. We aimed to evaluate the bidirectional interactions of HPV infection between these two anatomical sites. We evaluated 68 immunocompetent women undergoing excisional treatment for HSIL/CIN. Immediately before treatment, samples from the anus and the cervix were obtained (baseline anal and cervical HPV status). Cervical HPV clearance after treatment was defined as treatment success. The first follow-up control was scheduled 4-6 months after treatment for cervical and anal samples. High resolution anoscopy (HRA) was performed on patients with persistent anal HPV infections or abnormal anal cytology in the first control. Baseline anal HPV was positive in 42/68 (61.8%) of the women. Anal HPV infection persisted after treatment in 29/68 (42.6%) of the women. One-third of these women (10/29; 34.5%) had HSIL/anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN). Among women achieving treatment success, cervical HPV in the first control was positive in 34.6% and 17.6% of the patients with positive and negative baseline anal HPV infection, respectively (p = 0.306). In conclusion, patients with persisting anal HPV after HSIL/CIN treatment are at high risk of HSIL/AIN, suggesting that these women would benefit from anal exploration. The study also suggests that women with anal HPV infection treated for HSIL/CIN might be at higher risk of recurrent cervical HPV even after successful treatment.

Global burden of HPV-attributable squamous cell carcinoma of the anus in 2020, according to sex and HIV status: A worldwide analysis

Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) is caused by HPV, and is elevated in persons living with HIV (PLWHIV). We aimed to estimate sex- and HIV-stratified SCCA burden at a country, regional and global level. Using anal cancer incidence estimates from 185 countries available through GLOBOCAN 2020, and region/country-specific proportions of SCCA vs non-SCCA from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents (CI5) Volume XI database, we estimated country- and sex-specific SCCA incidence. Proportions of SCCA diagnosed in PLWHIV, and attributable to HIV, were calculated using estimates of HIV prevalence (UNAIDS 2019) and relative risk applied to SCCA incidence. Of 30 416 SCCA estimated globally in 2020, two-thirds occurred in women (19 792) and one-third among men (10 624). Fifty-three percent of male SCCA and 65% of female SCCA occurred in countries with a very high Human Development Index (HDI). Twenty-one percent of the global male SCCA burden occurred in PLWHIV (n = 2203), largely concentrated in North America, Europe and Africa. While, only 3% of global female SCCA burden (n = 561) occurred in PLWHIV, mainly in Africa. The global age-standardized incidence rate of HIV-negative SCCA was higher in women (0.55 cases per 100 000) than men (0.28), whereas HIV-positive SCCA was higher in men (0.07) than women (0.02). HIV prevalence reached >40% in 22 countries for male SCCA and in 10 countries for female SCCA, mostly in Africa. Understanding global SCCA burden by HIV status can inform SCCA prevention programs (through HPV vaccination, screening and HIV control) and help raise awareness to combat the disease.

Anal Cancer in High-Risk Women: The Lost Tribe

In developed countries the incidence of anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has been rising; especially in women over the age of 60 years who present with more advanced disease stage than men. Historically, anal SCC screening has focused on people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) (PLWH) who are considered to be at the highest risk of anal SCC, and its precancerous lesion, anal squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL). Despite this, women with vulval high-grade squamous epithelial lesions (HSIL) and SCCs have been shown to be as affected by anal HSIL and SCC as some PLWH. Nevertheless, there are no guidelines for the management of anal HSIL in this patient group. The ANCHOR trial demonstrated that treating anal HSIL significantly reduces the risk of anal SCC in PLWH, there is therefore an unmet requirement to clarify whether the screening and treatment of HSIL in women with a prior genital HSIL is also beneficial. This review presents the current evidence supporting the screening, treatment, and surveillance of anal HSIL in high-risk women with a previous history of genital HSIL and/or SCC.

Prevalence of Anal High-Risk Human Papilloma Virus Infection and Abnormal Anal Cytology among Women Living with HIV

Background: Women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), WLWHs, are at high risk of developing anal cancer associated with high-risk human papilloma virus infection (HR-HPV). We analyzed the prevalence of anal HR-HPV infection and abnormal anal cytology in a cohort of WLWHs and assessed the risk factors for anal HR-HPV infection. Methods: We present a single-center, observational cross-sectional study. WLWHs who underwent anal cytology and anal human papilloma virus (HPV) testing were selected. High-resolution anoscopy was performed in cases of abnormal anal cytology. All suspicious lesions were biopsied. A univariate and multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze risk factors for abnormal anal screening. The results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: In total, 400 WLWHs were studied. Of them, 334 met the eligibility criteria and were enrolled in the study. Abnormal anal cytology was detected in 39.5% of patients, and anal HR-HPV in 40.1%, with HPV 16 in 33 (26.6%) of them. Concomitant HR-HPV cervical infection was the only independent risk factor for HR-HPV anal infection (OR 1.67 95% CI, p < 0.001). Conclusions: WLWHs have a high prevalence of HR-HPV anal infection and anal cytologic abnormalities. HR-HPV cervical infection is the main predictor of HR-HPV anal infection.

Women with Cervical High-Risk Human Papillomavirus: Be Aware of Your Anus! The ANGY Cross-Sectional Clinical Study

Anogenital human papillomaviruses (HPV) are highly prevalent in sexually active populations, with HR-HPV being associated with dysplasia and cancers. The consequences of cervical HPV infection are well-known, whereas those of the anus are less clear. The correlation of cervical and anal HPVs with the increasing number of anal cancers in women has not been studied yet. The objective of our prospective study was to determine whether cervical and anal HPV correlated in a cohort of women recruited in a university hospital in Switzerland. Recruitment was conducted in the gynecology clinic, the colposcopy clinic, and the HIV clinic. Cervical and anal HPV genotyping and cytology were performed. Overall, 275 patients were included (360 were initially planned), and among them, 102 (37%) had cervical HR-HPV. Patients with cervical HR-HPV compared to patients without cervical HR-HPV were significantly younger (39 vs. 44 yrs, p < 0.001), had earlier sexual intercourse (17.2 vs. 18.3 yrs, p < 0.01), had more sexual partners (2.9 vs. 2.2, p < 0.0001), more dysplastic cervical cytology findings (42% vs. 19%, p < 0.0001) and higher prevalence of anal HR-HPV (59% vs. 24%, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, the HR-HPV group reported more anal intercourse (44% vs. 29%, p < 0.015). Multivariate analysis retained anal HR-HPV as independent risk factor for cervical HR-HPV (OR3.3, CI 1.2−9.0, p = 0.02). The results of this study emphasize that it is of upmost importance to screen women for anal HR-HPV when diagnosing cervical HR-HPV.

Type-specific concurrent anogenital HPV detection among young women and MSM attending Dutch sexual health clinics

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate type-specific concurrent anogenital human papillomavirus (HPV) detection and examine associations with concurrent detection.

METHODS

Data from a Dutch repeated cross-sectional study among young sexual health clinic visitors (Papillomavirus Surveillance among STI clinic Youngsters in the Netherlands) between 2009 and 2019 were used. Cohen's kappa was used to assess the degree of type-specific concordance of HPV detection between anal and genital sites for 25 HPV genotypes for women and men who have sex with men (MSM) separately. Associations with type-specific concurrent HPV were identified. Receptive anal intercourse (RAI) was forced into the model to investigate its influence.

RESULTS

Among women (n=1492), type-specific concurrent anogenital detection was common; kappa was above 0.4 for 20 genotypes. Among MSM (n=614), kappa was <0.4 for all genotypes. The only significant association with type-specific concurrent anogenital detection among women was genital chlamydia (adjusted OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.2). RAI was not associated.

CONCLUSIONS

Type-specific concurrent anogenital HPV detection was common among young women, and uncommon among MSM. For women, concurrent HPV detection was associated with genital chlamydia. Our results are suggestive of autoinoculation of HPV among women.

Prevalence and risk factors for anogenital HPV infection and neoplasia among women living with HIV in China

OBJECTIVES

To explore the prevalence and risk factors of anogenital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and neoplasia among women living with HIV (WLHIV) in China.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 2019 to 2020, 409 WLHIV aged 18 years and older were recruited from an HIV treatment clinic in Yunnan, China. Cervical and anal samples were collected for HPV testing of 15 HPV genotypes and cytological interpretation. Women positive for cervical HPV or cytological abnormalities were recalled for colposcopy examination and biopsy when necessary. Prevalence of anogenital HPV infection and neoplasia were compared by logistic regression.

RESULTS

HPV prevalence was 34.2% (140/409) for cervical and 34.7% (142/409) for anal (high-risk HPV being 30.6% (125/409) and 30.3% (124/409), respectively). The most frequent genotypes were HPV-52, HPV-16 and HPV-58 in the cervix, HPV-52, HPV-53 and HPV-39 in the anus, with strong correlation between cervical and anal positivity, both overall and at a type-specific level. Cervical HPV was most associated with short duration of combination antiretroviral therapies (cART) (≤2 vs >2 years, adjusted OR (aOR)=2.25, 95% CI: 1.22 to 4.12) and high initial HIV viral load (≥1000 vs <1000 copies/mL, aOR=1.98, 95% CI: 1.10 to 3.58). Anal HPV was most associated with low nadir CD4 count (<200 vs ≥200 cells/µL, aOR=1.80, 95% CI: 1.01 to 3.22) and low current CD4 count (<350 vs ≥500 cells/µL, aOR=2.06, 95% CI: 1.00 to 4.36). CIN2+ prevalence was 4.6% and associated with low nadir CD4 count (aOR=4.63, 95% CI: 1.24 to 17.25).

CONCLUSIONS

Cervical and anal HPV were strongly correlated and, together with associated neoplasia, were highly prevalent among WLHIV in China. Early initiation of cART to avoid severe immunodeficiency should decrease anogenital HPV prevalence and related cancer burden among WLHIV. Incorporating anogenital cancer prevention services into HIV/AIDS care is warranted.

Identifying risk factors for prevalent anal human papillomavirus type 16 infection in women living with HIV

Background

Women living with HIV (WLHIV) have a high risk of anal cancer. Identifying risk factors for anal HPV 16 infection, the most significant risk factor for anal cancer, is essential for prevention and screening strategies.

Methods

In the EVVA Cohort study, 151 WLHIV had cervical and anal HPV testing with genotyping every 6 months for 2 years, while demographic and clinical data were collected via questionnaires and chart reviews. Here, we present results of baseline data analyzed using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Among 150 women with adequate HPV test results at baseline, HPV 16 DNA was detected anally in 23 (15.3%; 95%CI:10.4–22.1) and cervically in 5 (3.3%; 95%CI:1.4–7.8). In multivariable analysis, current smoking (OR = 6.0; 95%CI: 1.5–23.9), nadir CD4 count ≤ 200 cells/μL (OR = 8.4; 95%CI: 2.0–34.3), prevalent cervical HPV 16 (OR = 14.7; 95%CI: 1.0–222.5) and anogenital herpes in previous 6 months (OR = 9.8, 95%CI: 1.7–56.8) were associated with prevalent anal HPV 16.

Conclusions

Knowledge of risk factors can help identify WLHIV at greatest risk of anal HPV 16 infection and, potentially, developing subsequent anal cancer. Identification of the subgroup of these women in whom HPV 16 persists could be an early step in the algorithm of anal cancer screening.

Temporal Trends and Projection of Cancer Attributable to Human Papillomavirus Infection in China, 2007-2030

BACKGROUND

Information on temporal trends of cancer attributable to human papillomavirus (HPV) in China is limited.

METHODS

Cancer incidence and mortality during 2007 to 2015 were extracted from the Chinese Cancer Registry Annual Report and the national population from the National Bureau of Statistics. HPV-attributable cancer burden and the average annual percentage change during 2007 to 2015 were estimated and cancer burden during 2016 to 2030 was projected.

RESULTS

HPV-attributable cancer cases have increased by 3.8% [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.9%-4.8%] annually from 85,125 to 113,558 and age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) rose by 3.0% (95% CI, 2.5%-3.5%) from 4.67 to 5.83 per 100,000 persons during 2007 to 2015. Cervical, female anal, and vulva cancer cases have increased by 3.8% (95% CI, 2.8%-4.7%), 6.5% (95% CI, 1.2%-12.2%), and 3.7% (95% CI, 1.6%-5.8%) per year. Male anal and oropharyngeal cancer cases have elevated by 7.5% (95% CI, 2.8%-12.5%) and 4.4% (95% CI, 2.4%-6.3%) annually. The increases of cervical and anal cancer were most rapid among those aged 50 and older. HPV-attributable cancer deaths and mortality rate have risen by 4.7% (95% CI, 2.9%-6.7%) and 3.3% (95% CI, 0.9%-5.8%) respectively. HPV-attributable cancer cases and ASIR are projected to reach 214,077 and 9.35 of 100,000 persons by 2030 respectively, with 87.7% being cervical cancer, and anal cancer cases are expected to triple.

CONCLUSIONS

HPV-attributable cancer burden has largely increased in the past and will keep rising for the next decade. Cervical cancer control should be the priority and anal cancer prevention should be addressed.

IMPACT

This study supplies fundamental evidence for policy-making on HPV-attributable cancer control.

Hsa_circ_0072008 regulates cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in cervical squamous cell carcinoma via miR-1305/helicase, lymphoid specific (HELLS) axis

Cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CESC) is one of the most common cancers in women. Recent studies have proved that circular RNAs (circRNAs) could regulate the progress of CESC, but the mechanism is still indistinct. In this work, we explored the roles of circ_0072008 in CESC. The expression levels of circ_0072008, microRNA-1305 (miR-1305) and mRNA of HELLS (helicase, lymphoid specific) were detected by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in CESC tissues. Meanwhile, the level of HELLS was quantified by western blot analysis. Besides, the cell functions were examined by colony formation assay, 5-Ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, wound healing assay, flow cytometry assay and western blot. Furthermore, the interaction between miR-1305 and circ_0072008 or HELLS was detected by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The function of circ_0072008 in CESC has also been further verified in vivo by xenograft model experiments. The levels of circ_0072008 and HELLS were upregulated, and the miR-1305 level was decreased in CESC tissues in contrast to that in normal tissues. For functional analysis, silencing circ_0072008 inhibited cell proliferation and cell migration, whereas enhanced cell apoptosis in CESC cells. In mechanism, circ_0072008 acted as a miR-1305 sponge to regulate the level of HELLS. Moreover, miR-1305 was confirmed to repress the progression of CESC cells by suppressing HELLS. Meanwhile, knockdown of circ_0072008 inhibited CESC cells growth in vivo. In conclusion, circ_0072008 facilitated CESC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through increasing HELLS expression by regulating miR-1305, which also offered an underlying targeted therapy for CESC treatment.

Perceptions of Anal Cancer Risk Among HIV-Positive and High-Risk HIV-Negative Women

OBJECTIVES

Women living with HIV (WLWH) have a greater risk of anal cancer than women without HIV; however, there are limited studies that examine awareness of anal cancer risk among WLWH and "high-risk" HIV-negative women. This study examines risk factors for anal cancer, perceptions of risk for anal cancer, and perceptions of anal cancer screening among a cohort of WLWH and high-risk HIV-negative women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From the Atlanta, GA, and Bronx, NY, sites of the Women's Interagency HIV Study, 155 WLWH and HIV-negative women were enrolled and the Champion Health Belief Model Scale questionnaire measuring risk perceptions to anal cancer was administered to each participant.

RESULTS

The WLWH perceived anal cancer to be less serious and perceived facing fewer barriers to anal cancer screening than HIV-negative women (both p = .01). Older women (≥50 years) felt that they had less barriers to anal cancer screening (p = .047). Moreover, women who had less than a high school education felt more susceptible to anal cancer (p = .001), as did women who reported a history of anal intercourse (p = .017).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite being at an increased risk for anal cancer, perceptions of susceptibility to anal cancer and seriousness of anal cancer were low among WLWH. These findings highlight opportunities for provider and patient educational interventions to improve awareness of anal cancer risk among WLWH.

Trends in Human Papillomavirus-Associated Cancers, Demographic Characteristics, and Vaccinations in the US, 2001-2017

IMPORTANCE

Nearly 45 000 human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancers are diagnosed annually in the US. The HPV vaccine has been approved since 2006, but information on the association between vaccination and the incidence of HPV-attributable cancers is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the potential association of screening and vaccination on the trends of HPV-associated cancers.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A retrospective, population-based cross-sectional study was conducted using data on HPV-associated (oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma [SCC], anal/rectal SCC, vulvar SCC, vaginal SCC, cervical carcinoma, and penile SCC) cancers from the US Cancer Statistics Public Use Database, representing 99% of the US population, between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2017; HPV vaccination and screening data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2016; and TeenVaxView between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2018. National Cancer Database and Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance were used to correct for hysterectomy. Data analysis was performed from April 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021.

EXPOSURES

Patient demographic characteristics, including age, race and ethnicity, sex, region, and vaccination status.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The main outcomes examined in this study were diagnoses of any HPV-associated cancer and HPV vaccination status.

RESULTS

A total of 657 317 HPV-associated cancers (exact ages not collected by the United States Cancer Statistics); of these, 264 019 (40.2%) developed in men and 393 298 (59.8%) in women; 14 520 individuals (2.2%) were non-Hispanic Asian/Pacific Islander, 74 641 (11.4%) were non-Hispanic Black, 59 841 (9.1%) were Hispanic, and 499 899 were non-Hispanic White (76.1%). More than half (206 075 [52.4%]) of cancers in women were cervical, whereas most (211 421 [80.1%]) cancers in men were oropharyngeal. In female adolescents (aged 13-17 years), the vaccination rate increased from 37.2% to 69.9% from 2008 to 2018 (annual percent change: 6.57% [95% CI, 5.83%-7.32%]). Before vaccination approval, cervical cancer rates in the 20- to 24-year age group were decreasing at 2.29% annually (P = .045); after vaccine approval, this rate has been decreasing at 9.50% (P = .003). In men, annual increases were noted in oropharyngeal (2.71%) and anal/rectal (1.83%) cancers (P < .001); in women, the incidence of oropharyngeal remained stable but anal/rectal cancer increased at 2.83% every year (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In the US, cervical cancer rates have decreased at a population level, especially in younger women. The findings of this study suggest this decrease may be associated with vaccination. Given the increase in oropharyngeal and anal/rectal cancers, particularly in men, it may be important to highlight vaccination uptake in both sexes.

Emerging Roles of m6A RNA Methylation Regulators in Gynecological Cancer

Gynecological cancers seriously affect the reproductive system of females; diseases include ovarian tumors, uterine tumors, endometrial cancers, cervical cancers, and vulva and vaginal tumors. At present, the diagnosis methods of gynecological cancer are insufficiently sensitive and specific, leading to failure of early disease detection. N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A) plays various biological functions in RNA modification and is currently studied extensively. m⁶A modification controls the fate of transcripts and regulates RNA metabolism and biological processes through the interaction of m⁶A methyltransferase (“writer”) and demethylase (“erasers”) and the binding protein decoding m⁶A methylation (“readers”). In the field of epigenetics, m⁶A modification is a dynamic process of reversible regulation of target RNA through its regulatory factors. It plays an important role in many diseases, especially cancer. However, its role in gynecologic cancers has not been fully investigated. Thus, we review the regulatory mechanism, biological functions, and therapeutic prospects of m⁶A RNA methylation regulators in gynecological cancers.

Anal cytological abnormalities and human papillomavirus infection in women living with HIV: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To provide a summary estimate of the prevalence of anal cytological abnormalities and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection as well as their covariates in women living with HIV (WLHIV).

METHODS

Four databases - PubMed, Cochrane Library, ProQuest and Web of Science - were searched up to 31 May 2021 for studies reporting on the prevalence and/or covariates of abnormal anal cytology and/or anal HPV infection in WLHIV. The data were extracted independently by two authors using standardized extraction forms. Random effect models were used to estimate the summary effect sizes.

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of anal cytological abnormalities in WLHIV was 28.5% [95% confidence interval (CI): 22.8-35.5]. High-grade cytological lesions were seen in 12.1% (95% CI: 8.5-17.2) of the abnormal smears. HPV infection (any type) in the anal samples was detected in 60.7% (95% CI: 54.1-68.0) of the samples while high-risk HPV was found in 44.0% (95% CI: 37.6-51.5). A positive association was seen between anal cytological abnormality and factors such as receptive anal intercourse [meta-risk ratio (meta-RR) = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.3-1.8], having multiple sexual partners (1.6, 95% CI: 1.0-2.5), CD4 count < 200 cells/µL (4.6, 95% CI: 3.0-6.9), anal HPV (4.6, 95% CI: 2.4-8.8), abnormal cervical cytology (2.3, 95% CI: 2.0-2.8), and cervical HPV (meta-RR 4.6, 95% CI: 2.2-9.8). Anal HPV infection was significantly associated with cervical HPV positivity (2.5, 95% CI: 1.2-5.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results highlight the high prevalence of abnormal anal cytology and HPV infection in WLHIV. The positive association of anal cytological abnormality with parameters such as abnormal cervical cytology, cervical HPV infection and low CD4 count suggests that anal sex history and examination may be considered in WLHIV undergoing screening for sexually transmitted infection and possessing any of these risk factors.

Anal High-risk HPV and Liquid-based Cytology of Immunocompetent Brazilian Women with Genital High-risk HPV

OBJECTIVE

 The purpose of this study was to compare the frequency of the occurrence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and abnormal anal cytology in immunocompetent women with and without HPV-induced genital lesions.

METHODS

 This analytical cross-sectional, observational study was conducted between July 2017 and December 2018 in a specialized outpatient clinic of a tertiary hospital in Fortaleza, CE. Fifty-seven immunocompetent women with and without genital intraepithelial lesions were assessed; they were divided into two groups: group 1 was comprised of women with HPV-associated genital lesions (n = 26), and group 2 was comprised of those without HPV-associated genital lesions (n = 31). Samples for liquid-based cytology and high-risk DNA-HPV polymerase chain reaction real-time tests were collected from the cervix and anus. All cases were evaluated using high-resolution anoscopy; biopsies were performed when required. The Fisher exact and chi-squared tests were applied for consolidated data in the contingency table, and the Student t-test and Mann-Whitney U-test for independent variables.

RESULTS

 Anal high-risk HPV infections were more frequent in group 1 (odds ratio [OR], 4.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34-18.3; p = 0.012), along with concomitant high-risk HPV infections in the uterine cervix and the anus (OR 18.8; 95% CI, 2.20-160; p < 0.001). The incidence of high-risk cervical HPV infection was associated with high-risk anal HPV infection (OR, 4.95; 95% CI, 1.34-18.3; p = 0.012). There was no statistical difference concerning abnormal anal cytology or anoscopy between the groups, and no anal intraepithelial lesion was found in either group.

CONCLUSION

 Immunocompetent women with HPV-associated genital lesions and high-risk cervical HPV were more likely to have high-risk anal HPV.

Synchronous occurrence of HPV-associated cervical squamous cell carcinoma (FIGO IIA) in prolapsed uterus and adenocarcinoma of the anal canal cT1N0M0: Case report

RATIONALE

Guidelines of rare synchronous tumours treatment are often unavailable due to lack of wide prospective studies. Additionally, their management is not just a simple sum of coexisting tumours management and has to regard many circumstances like symptoms, age, comorbidities, advancement.

PATIENT CONCERNS

Herein, we report a case of an 81-year-old woman who presented with bleeding from the prolapsed uterus.

DIAGNOSES

Based on physical examination, that is, speculum examination, bimanual, and per rectum, followed by rectoscopy and histopathology, the diagnosis of cervical squamous cell carcinoma FIGO IIA2 in prolapsed uterus with anal canal adenocarcinoma cT1N0M0 was made.

INTERVENTIONS

Dominating complaint of bleeding from prolapsed cervix was managed with radical vaginal hysterectomy in conjunction with wide colpectomy preceded by laparoscopic pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy. Due to the lack of consent for removal of the anus, only radiotherapy was applied instead.

OUTCOMES

The patient underwent magnetic resonance image follow-up. No recurrence was found at 18 months.

LESSONS

Imaging is useful method of synchronous cancers diagnostics. These cancers may vary in aetiology and stage. Cervical cancer may be co-existing with another anogenital cancer. Therapy of synchronous cancers should be individualized taking into account patient's consent, age, physical condition, and comorbidities.

Gaps and Opportunities to Improve Prevention of Human Papillomavirus-Related Cancers

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections cause more than 35,900 cancers annually in the United States. Although cervical cancer is the most prevalent HPV-related malignancy in women, the virus is also responsible for a significant percentage of anal, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. A comprehensive approach to mitigating cervical cancer includes HPV vaccination (primary prevention), screening and treatment of precancerous lesions (secondary prevention), and diagnosis and treatment of invasive cancer (tertiary prevention). Although a successful strategy, there are opportunities to innovate and increase access that can also be adapted to address the unique clinical care gaps that exist with the other anogenital cancers. The Society for Women's Health Research held a series of interdisciplinary meetings and events, during which expert researchers, clinicians, patient advocates, and health care policy leaders evaluated the current landscape of HPV-related cancers and their effects on women's health. This report summarizes the discussions of this working group and areas it identified in which to address gaps in primary and secondary prevention approaches to improve access and health outcomes for women with HPV-related anogenital cancers.

Prognostic value of high-risk human papillomavirus DNA and p16INK4a immunohistochemistry in patients with anal cancer: An individual patient data meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) types represent the aetiological agents in a major proportion of anal squamous cell carcinomas (ASCC). Several studies have suggested a prognostic relevance of HPV-related markers, particularly hrHPV DNA and p16^INK4a (p16) protein expression, in patients with ASCC. However, broader evaluation of these prognostic marker candidates has been hampered by small cohort sizes and heterogeneous survival data among the individual studies. We conducted an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis to determine the prognostic value of hrHPV DNA and p16 in patients with ASCC while controlling for major clinical and tumour covariates.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify all published studies analysing p16 alone or in combination with hrHPV DNA and reporting survival data in patients with ASCC. Clinical and tumour-related IPD were requested from authors of potentially eligible studies. Survival analyses were performed with a proportional hazard Cox model stratified by study and adjusted for relevant covariates. The study-specific hazard ratios (HRs) for the exposures were pooled using a random-effects model. Kaplan-Meier curves from different studies were pooled per exposure group and weighted by the study's total sample size.

RESULTS

Seven studies providing IPD from 693 patients with ASCC could be included in the meta-analysis. Seventy-six percent of patients were p16+/hrHPV DNA+, whereas 11% were negative for both markers. A discordant marker status was observed in 13% of cases. Patients with p16+/hrHPV DNA+ ASCC showed significantly superior overall survival (OS) compared with patients with p16-/hrHPV DNA- tumours (pooled adjusted HR = 0.26 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.14-0.50]) with pooled three-year OS rates of 86% (95% CI, 82-90%) versus 39% (95% CI, 24-54%). Patients with discordant p16 and hrHPV DNA status showed intermediate three-year OS rates (75% [95% CI, 56-86%] for p16+/hrHPV DNA- and 55% [95% CI, 35-71%] for p16-/hrHPV DNA+ ASCC).

CONCLUSION

This first IPD meta-analysis controlling for confounding variables shows that patients with p16+/hrHPV DNA+ ASCC have a significantly better survival than patients with p16-/hrHPV DNA- tumours.

Prevalence of anal cytological abnormalities and high-risk human papillomavirus prevalence in kidney transplant recipients: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Transplant recipients are at high-risk of anal squamous cell cancer. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) and assess characteristics associated with results METHODS: We recruited kidney transplant recipients in a single-center, 2015-2018. Participants completed a clinical questionnaire and received an anal-swab sent for HPV-DNA and cytological testing RESULTS: A total of 97 (74%) of 125 recipients approached consented to participate. Participants were median 47 (IQR 40-55) years, 60% male and median 4.5 (IQR .9-13) months-since-transplant. Of 86 assessable samples, at least one HPV genotype was detected in 15 (17%) participants; 1 (1%) HPV16, 8 (9%) other high-risk HPV. Of 76 assessable cytology samples, 9 (12%) showed evidence of abnormality; 1 (1%) HSIL, 1 (1%) atypical-squamous-cells, cannot exclude HSIL. Both HSIL recipients had high-risk HPV and biopsy confirmed HSIL. High-risk HPV was detected in six (9%) recipients with normal cytology. History of sexually transmitted infection, and abnormal cervical pap smear in women, was associated with high-risk HPV and HSIL CONCLUSIONS: High-risk HPV and HSIL testing may identify kidney transplant recipients at higher risk of anal cancer. Longitudinal studies are needed to describe the natural history of anal cancer in transplant recipients.

Prevalence and genotype specific concordance of oro-genital and anal human papillomavirus infections among sexually active Nigerian women

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) associated cancers are increasingly reported globally, including in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, with the exception of cervical HPV infection, data from SSA on the epidemiology of oral and genital HPV infections are limited. This study assessed the prevalence and concordance of oro-genital and anal HPV genotype specific infections among women in the general population.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in sexually active women aged 18–45 years in Ibadan, Nigeria. After a face-to-face interview and clinical examination, oral, cervical, vulvar, and anal samples were collected from participants and tested by the Anyplex II 28 HPV assay. Descriptive and multivariable analyses were used to report prevalence and risk factors associated with HPV infections.

Results

The prevalence of any vulva, cervical, anal, and oral HPV infections was 68.0% (210/309), 59.7% (182/305), 56.8% (172/303), and 16.1% (14/286), respectively. There was an inverse relationship between age-group and HPV prevalence of HPV in all anatomic sites except for the oral HPV infections. HPV 35 was the most prevalent high-risk HPV genotype in the vulva, cervix and oral cavity. Associated risk factors for HPV infection in each of the anatomic sites were reported. Overall, 10.0% (31/310) women had concordance of any HPV type in the four anatomic sites.

Conclusion

There was a high prevalence of oro-genital and anal HPV infections among sexually active Nigerian women, with concordance of HPV types in the cervix, vulva, anus and oral cavity. We advocate large longitudinal studies that will involve sampling of multiple anatomic sites and inclusion of other women in the community for better understanding of HPV epidemiology in this region.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13027-021-00398-9.

Epidemiology of anal human papillomavirus infection and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions in 29 900 men according to HIV status, sexuality, and age: a collaborative pooled analysis of 64 studies

BACKGROUND

Robust age-specific estimates of anal human papillomavirus (HPV) and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) in men can inform anal cancer prevention efforts. We aimed to evaluate the age-specific prevalence of anal HPV, HSIL, and their combination, in men, stratified by HIV status and sexuality.

METHODS

We did a systematic review for studies on anal HPV infection in men and a pooled analysis of individual-level data from eligible studies across four groups: HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM), HIV-negative MSM, HIV-positive men who have sex with women (MSW), and HIV-negative MSW. Studies were required to inform on type-specific HPV infection (at least HPV16), detected by use of a PCR-based test from anal swabs, HIV status, sexuality (MSM, including those who have sex with men only or also with women, or MSW), and age. Authors of eligible studies with a sample size of 200 participants or more were invited to share deidentified individual-level data on the above four variables. Authors of studies including 40 or more HIV-positive MSW or 40 or more men from Africa (irrespective of HIV status and sexuality) were also invited to share these data. Pooled estimates of anal high-risk HPV (HR-HPV, including HPV16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, and 68), and HSIL or worse (HSIL+), were compared by use of adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) from generalised linear models.

FINDINGS

The systematic review identified 93 eligible studies, of which 64 contributed data on 29 900 men to the pooled analysis. Among HIV-negative MSW anal HPV16 prevalence was 1·8% (91 of 5190) and HR-HPV prevalence was 6·9% (345 of 5003); among HIV-positive MSW the prevalences were 8·7% (59 of 682) and 26·9% (179 of 666); among HIV-negative MSM they were 13·7% (1455 of 10 617) and 41·2% (3798 of 9215), and among HIV-positive MSM 28·5% (3819 of 13 411) and 74·3% (8765 of 11 803). In HIV-positive MSM, HPV16 prevalence was 5·6% (two of 36) among those age 15-18 years and 28·8% (141 of 490) among those age 23-24 years (ptrend=0·0091); prevalence was 31·7% (1057 of 3337) among those age 25-34 years and 22·8% (451 of 1979) among those age 55 and older (ptrend<0·0001). HPV16 prevalence in HIV-negative MSM was 6·7% (15 of 223) among those age 15-18 and 13·9% (166 of 1192) among those age 23-24 years (ptrend=0·0076); the prevalence plateaued thereafter (ptrend=0·72). Similar age-specific patterns were observed for HR-HPV. No significant differences for HPV16 or HR-HPV were found by age for either HIV-positive or HIV-negative MSW. HSIL+ detection ranged from 7·5% (12 of 160) to 54·5% (61 of 112) in HIV-positive MSM; after adjustment for heterogeneity, HIV was a significant predictor of HSIL+ (aPR 1·54, 95% CI 1·36-1·73), HPV16-positive HSIL+ (1·66, 1·36-2·03), and HSIL+ in HPV16-positive MSM (1·19, 1·04-1·37). Among HPV16-positive MSM, HSIL+ prevalence increased with age.

INTERPRETATION

High anal HPV prevalence among young HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM highlights the benefits of gender-neutral HPV vaccination before sexual activity over catch-up vaccination. HIV-positive MSM are a priority for anal cancer screening research and initiatives targeting HPV16-positive HSIL+.

FUNDING

International Agency for Research on Cancer.

The Association Between Sex and Survival for Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The incidence of anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is rising, despite the introduction of a vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common etiology of anal SCC. The rate of anal SCC is higher among women and sex-based survival differences may exist. We aimed to examine the association between sex and survival for stage I-IV anal SCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The National Cancer Database was used to identify patients with stage I-IV anal SCC from 2004-2016. Outcomes were assessed utilizing log rank tests, Kaplan-Meier statistics, and Cox proportional-hazard modeling. Subgroup analyses by disease stage and by HPV status were performed. Outcomes of interest were median, 1-, and 5-year survival by sex.

RESULTS

There were 31,185 patients with stage I-IV anal SCC. 10,714 (34.3%) were male and 20,471 (65.6%) were female. 1- and 5- year survival was 90.2% (95% CI 89.8 - 90.7) and 67.7% (95% CI 66.9 - 68.5) for females compared to 85.8% (95% CI 85.1 - 86.5) and 55.9% (95% CI 54.7 - 57.0) for males. In subgroup analysis, females demonstrated improved unadjusted and adjusted survival for all stages of disease. Female sex was an independent predictor of improved survival (HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.65 - 0.71, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate better overall survival for females compared to males for stage I-IV anal SCC. It is not clear why women have a survival advantage over men, though exposure to prominent risk factors may play a role. High-risk men may warrant routine screening for anal cancer.

Worldwide trends in cervical cancer incidence and mortality, with predictions for the next 15 years

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is 1 of the most common cancers in females worldwide. Understanding the most recent global patterns and temporal trends of cervical cancer burden might be helpful for its prevention and control.

METHODS

Data on cervical cancer (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, code C53) incidence and mortality in 2018 were extracted from the GLOBOCAN 2018 database and further analyzed for their correlations with the Human Development Index. Temporal trends were analyzed using the annual percent change with joinpoint analysis among 31 countries with highly qualified data from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents Plus and World Health Organization mortality databases. Future trends for the next 15 years were predicted using an open-source age-period-cohort model.

RESULTS

Cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates were both negatively correlated with the Human Development Index (r = -0.56 for incidence, r = -0.69 for mortality; P < .001) in cross-sectional analysis, and both remained stable in 12 countries or even decreased in 14 and 18 countries for incidence and mortality, respectively, during the most recent 10 data years. Similar findings were observed for the next 15 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Cervical cancer burden was correlated with socioeconomic development. An overwhelming majority of countries had stable or decreasing trends in incidence and mortality rates, especially in those with effective cervical cancer screening programs and human papillomavirus vaccination.

LAY SUMMARY

The authors investigated the most up-to-date data from official databases released by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and found that cervical cancer incidence and mortality were negatively correlated with socioeconomic development. Among the 31 countries analyzed, most (26 countries were analyzed for incidence, and 30 were analyzed for mortality) had stable or even decreasing temporal trends over the most recent 10 years, especially in those with effective cervical cancer screening programs. In addition, the predicted trends for the next 15 years were basically consistent with the observed trends among most of the analyzed countries (19 countries for incidence and 26 countries for mortality).

Risk of Anal High-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions Among Renal Transplant Recipients Compared With Immunocompetent Controls

BACKGROUND

Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) have increased risk of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers, including anal cancer. We investigated the prevalence of anal high-grade intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) in RTRs compared with immunocompetent controls and risk factors for anal HSIL in RTRs.

METHODS

We included 247 RTRs and 248 controls in this cross-sectional study. We obtained anal samples for HPV testing with INNO-LiPA and performed high-resolution anoscopy on all participants. The participants completed a questionnaire on lifestyle and sexual habits. We used logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs) of histologically confirmed anal HSIL in RTRs vs controls and risk factors for anal HSIL in RTRs, stratified by sex and anal high-risk (hr) HPV status, adjusting for age, smoking, lifetime sexual partners, and receptive anal sex.

RESULTS

RTRs had higher anal HSIL prevalence than controls, both among men (6.5% vs 0.8%; adjusted OR [aOR], 11.21 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.46-291.17]) and women (15.4% vs 4.0%; aOR, 6.41 [95% CI, 2.14-24.10]). Among those with anal hrHPV, RTRs had higher anal HSIL prevalence than controls (33.8% vs 9.5%; aOR, 6.06 [95% CI, 2.16-20.27]). Having had receptive anal sex (aOR, 6.23 [95% CI, 2.23-19.08]) or genital warts (aOR, 4.21 [95% CI, 1.53-11.48]) were risk factors for anal HSIL in RTRs. All HSIL cases occurred in individuals with anal hrHPV.

CONCLUSIONS

RTRs had increased risk of anal HSIL compared with immunocompetent controls, with particularly high prevalence in female RTRs. Receptive anal sex, previous genital warts, and anal hrHPV infection were risk factors for anal HSIL in RTRs. Screening for anal HSIL in RTRs should be considered.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

NCT03018927.

Sequential Acquisition of Human Papillomavirus Infection at Genital and Anal Sites, Liuzhou, China

Little is known about the risk for acquiring a concordant human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in a genital (or anal) site after an anal (or genital) HPV infection. We collected 3 sets of anogenital specimens at 6-month intervals from 2,309 men and 2,378 women in Liuzhou, China, and tested these specimens for HPV. The risk for sequential anal HPV infection in participants with a previous genital HPV infection was higher than for participants without an infection (hazard ratio [HR] 4.4, 95% CI 3.4–5.8 for women and HR 2.6, 95% CI 1.4–4.6 for men). For sequential genital HPV infection, women with a previous anal infection had a higher risk (HR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–3.1), but no major difference was found for men (HR 0.7, 95% CI 0.2–1.9). Our study indicates that autoinoculation might play a major role in anogenital HPV transmission, in addition to direct sexual intercourse, especially for anal infection in women.

Anal cancer screening and prevention: a review for dermatologists

The incidence of and mortality from anal cancer, predominantly squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), have been increasing since the 1980s, during an era when many common malignancies have seen decreases in mortality. Dermatologists may be more likely to see patients at an increased risk for anal SCC, such as those living with HIV, MSM and those presenting for management of anogenital warts, yet there is little guidance in the field on how to manage these patients. We underwent a project to review the evidence surrounding screening and prevention of anal SCC. HPV vaccination, the main preventative measure for anal SCC, is often underutilized and may not be effective for those most at risk. Screening methods currently include high-risk HPV and anal cytology testing, with high-resolution anoscopy (HRA) reserved for biopsy and confirmatory testing. High-risk HPV testing has been associated with high sensitivity for intraepithelial neoplasia, but low specificity in high-risk groups. Recent meta-analyses examining AIN detection using anal cytology estimate a similarly high sensitivity of 74-87%, with a relatively higher specificity (44-66%) for identifying high-grade AIN. HRA is the gold standard for diagnosis, but its accessibility and cost are deterrents from its use as a screening tool. Cervical cancer screening, initially adopted without significant evidence of its impact, has significantly decreased cervical cancer rates. The argument can be made that rates of anal SCC may also benefit from appropriate screening methods, particularly anal cytology. It is prudent for dermatologists to be aware of the methods available to them in the management of at-risk patients, the data supporting them, and the potential benefits of screening in order to counsel patients appropriately and address the increasing burden of disease.

MicroRNA-186-3p attenuates tumorigenesis of cervical cancer by targeting MCM2

The present study examined the effect of microRNA (miRNA/miR)-186-3p and its target gene, minichromosome maintenance complex component 2 (MCM2), on cervical cancer. Cervical cancer tissues and corresponding normal tissues were collected from 48 patients and bioinformatics analysis was performed to identify the differentially expressed genes in cervical cancer. TargetScan and TarBase were used to identify miRNAs, and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was conducted to detect and evaluate mRNA expression levels. Additionally, MTT and 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine assays were performed to examine cell proliferation. Cell adhesion, cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were assessed using cell adhesion, flow cytometry and caspase-3/7 activity assays, respectively. The results revealed that miR-186-3p expression was downregulated in cervical cancer tissues and cells, and it negatively regulated MCM2 expression by directly targeting its 3' untranslated region in cervical cancer. Furthermore, MCM2 facilitated cell proliferation and inhibited cell apoptosis, which were reversed by upregulation of miR-186-3p expression. Collectively, the present study suggested that MCM2 and its negative regulator, miR-186-3p, regulate cervical cancer progression.

The Epidemiological Impact of STIs among General and Vulnerable Populations of the Amazon Region of Brazil: 30 years of Surveillance

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) represent a worldwide public health problem and, although many of them are curable, they continue to be neglected, especially in areas with a low human development index, such as in the northern region of Brazil. This review describes the results of 30 years of studies at the Virus Laboratory at the Federal University of Pará, including the prevalence and molecular epidemiology of HIV-1, HTLV-1/2, HPV, HBV, Treponema pallidum and Chlamydia trachomatis among urban and non-urban populations, and also in vulnerable groups in the Brazilian Amazon. Control strategies and challenges in preventing STIs are discussed considering this immense geographic region, where essential health services are unable to reach the entire population, especially the most vulnerable, such as female sex workers, people who use illicit drugs, remnants of quilombolos and indigenous communities.