Prevalence, incidence, and risk factors for human papillomavirus 16 seropositivity in Australian homosexual men

Evaluation of preventive medicine amongst people living with human immunodeficiency virus attending a hospital-based care setting

BACKGROUND

With improved outcomes in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to the use of anti-retroviral therapy, ensuring adequate preventative healthcare and management of HIV-related comorbidities is essential.

AIMS

To evaluate adherence with recommended guidelines for comorbidity and immunisation status screening amongst people living with HIV within a hospital-based setting across two timepoints.

METHODS

A single-centre retrospective case series was conducted at a hospital between 2011 and 2021. Inclusion criteria were ≥18 years, confirmed diagnosis of HIV and commencement of care within study period. Medical data were reviewed over two 12-month periods to capture comorbidity screening and vaccination adherence using established guidelines (Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine, Alfred Screening tool and Australian Technical Advisory Group recommendations). Descriptive statistics were obtained with IBM spss (version 29.0).

RESULTS

Of 102 patients, 82 (80.4%) were male and 55 (53.9%) born overseas. Nineteen (18.6%) patients entered in 2011, with a median of 36.5 months from service entry to exit. Within 12 months of entry 56 (55.4%) participants had influenza vaccination recorded. Within the last 12 months, 94.8% had recorded COVID-19 vaccination, with improvements in pneumococcal (72.3%) and hepatitis B (82.8%) since service entry. Recording of comorbidity screening was >90% for blood pressure, weight and renal function at both timepoints, however, suboptimal (<10%) for substance misuse, cognitive and osteoporosis screening.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a disparity amongst comorbidity screening and documentation of vaccination status. Further measures are required to target improvements in immunisation, bone health, substance misuse and cognitive impairment screening.

Infant Circumcision for Sexually Transmitted Infection Risk Reduction Globally

Population-based studies in high-income countries have failed to find that male circumcision protects against sexually transmitted infections. Using evidence from several sources, we show that male circumcision does protect against HIV during insertive intercourse for men who have sex with men.

Prevalence and Association of Perianal and Intra-Anal Warts with Composite High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions Among Gay and Bisexual Men: Baseline Data from the Study of the Prevention of Anal Cancer

Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes anal warts and anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). A higher incidence of anal cancer has been found among individuals previously diagnosed with anogenital warts. We aimed to investigate the association between anal warts and the presumed anal SCC precursor high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), among participants in the Study of the Prevention of Anal Cancer (SPANC). SPANC was a longitudinal study of anal HPV infections and related lesions among gay and bisexual men (GBM) age 35 years and older, in Sydney, Australia. Anal cytology and high-resolution anoscopy were performed. Logistic regression was used to investigate the association between clinically diagnosed anal warts and intra-anal composite-HSIL (cytology and/or histology) at the baseline visit. The prevalence of HSIL within biopsies from intra-anal warts was calculated. Laser capture microdissection (LCM) and HPV-genotyping was performed on HSIL lesions. Among 616 participants at study entry, 165 (26.8%) and 51 (8.3%) had intra-anal and perianal warts, respectively. Warts were associated with composite-HSIL, even after adjustment for HIV status, age, lifetime receptive anal intercourse partner number, and smoking (perianal: aOR 2.13, 95% CI 1.17-3.87, p = 0.013; intra-anal: aOR 1.69, 95% CI 1.16-2.46, p = 0.006). HSIL was detected in 24 (14.5%) of 165 biopsies from intra-anal warts. Of 17 HSIL lesions, 16 (94.1%) had high-risk HPV detected by LCM. Anal warts were common. Prevalent anal warts were associated with composite-HSIL. HSIL may be detected within biopsies of intra-anal warts. Anal warts may be a useful addition to risk stratification for HSIL among GBM.

Circumcision to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in men who have sex with men: a systematic review and meta-analysis of global data

BACKGROUND

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. Previous reviews investigating the role of circumcision in preventing HIV and other STIs among MSM were inconclusive. Many new studies have emerged in the past decade. To inform global prevention strategies for HIV and other STIs among MSM, we reviewed all available evidence on the associations between circumcision and HIV and other STIs among MSM.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, BioMed Central, Scopus, ResearchGate, Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, and websites of international HIV and STI conferences for studies published before March 8, 2018. Interventional or observational studies containing original quantitative data describing associations between circumcision and incident or prevalent infection of HIV and other STIs among MSM were included. Studies were excluded if MSM could not be distinguished from men who have sex with women only. We calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% CIs using random-effect models. We assessed risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale.

FINDINGS

We identified 62 observational studies including 119 248 MSM. Circumcision was associated with 23% reduced odds of HIV infection among MSM overall (OR 0·77, 95% CI 0·67-0·89; number of estimates [k]=45; heterogeneity I²=77%). Circumcision was protective against HIV infection among MSM in countries of low and middle income (0·58, 0·41-0·83; k=23; I²=77%) but not among MSM in high-income countries (0·99, 0·90-1·09; k=20; I²=40%). Circumcision was associated with reduced odds of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection among MSM overall (0·84, 0·75-0·95; k=5; I²=0%) and penile human papillomavirus (HPV) infection among HIV-infected MSM (0·71, 0·51-0·99; k=3; I²=0%).

INTERPRETATION

We found evidence that circumcision is likely to protect MSM from HIV infection, particularly in countries of low and middle income. Circumcision might also protect MSM from HSV and penile HPV infection. MSM should be included in campaigns promoting circumcision among men in countries of low and middle income. In view of the substantial proportion of MSM in countries of low and middle income who also have sex with women, well designed longitudinal studies differentiating MSM only and bisexual men are needed to clarify the effect of circumcision on male-to-male transmission of HIV and other STIs.

FUNDING

National Natural Science Foundation of China, National Science and Technology Major Project of China, Australian National Health and Medical Research Council Early Career Fellowship, Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, National Institutes of Health, Mega Projects of National Science Research for the 13th Five-Year Plan, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation.

Critical evaluation of arguments opposing male circumcision: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To systematically evaluate evidence against male circumcision (MC).

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE and Cochrane databases.

RESULTS

Database searches retrieved 297 publications for inclusion. Bibliographies of these yielded 101 more. After evaluation we found: Claims that MC carries high risk were contradicted by low frequency of adverse events that were virtually all minor and easily treated with complete resolution. Claims that MC causes psychological harm were contradicted by studies finding no such harm. Claims that MC impairs sexual function and pleasure were contradicted by high-quality studies finding no adverse effect. Claims disputing the medical benefits of MC were contradicted by a large body of high-quality evidence indicating protection against a wide range of infections, dermatological conditions, and genital cancers in males and the female sexual partners of men. Risk-benefit analyses reported that benefits exceed risks by 100-200 to 1. To maximize benefits and minimize risks, the evidence supported early infant MC rather than arguments that the procedure should be delayed until males are old enough to decide for themselves. Claims that MC of minors is unethical were contradicted by balanced evaluations of ethical issues supporting the rights of children to be provided with low-risk, high-benefit interventions such as MC for better health. Expert evaluations of case-law supported the legality of MC of minors. Other data demonstrated that early infant MC is cost-saving to health systems.

CONCLUSIONS

Arguments opposing MC are supported mostly by low-quality evidence and opinion, and are contradicted by strong scientific evidence.

Modeling HPV vaccination scale-up among urban young men who have sex with men in the context of HIV

INTRODUCTION

Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are at high risk to contract human papillomavirus (HPV). While an effective vaccination exists, its use among YMSM is markedly lower compared to non-MSM and women. This study compares scaling up HPV vaccination in conjunction with other prevention strategies.

METHODS

An agent-based model of urban YMSM (≤26 years of age) reflective of the demography of Philadelphia, PA, simulated for up to ten years of follow-up to examine anal and oral transmission of the HPV genotypes covered in the nonavalent (9v) vaccine: 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58. Starting HPV prevalences ranged from a high of 18% (type 6) to a low of 6% (type 31); overall 65% of individuals carried any HPV genotype. Simulated levels of vaccination were ranged from 0% to 13% (present-day level), 25%, 50%, 80% (Healthy People 2020 target), and 100% in conjunction with condom use and HIV seroadaptive practices. The primary outcome was the relative reduction in HPV infection.

RESULTS

Compared to present-day vaccination levels (13%), scaling-up vaccination led to expected declines in 10-year post-simulation HPV prevalence. Anal HPV (any 9v types) declined by 9%, 27%, 46%, and 58% at vaccination levels of 25%, 50%, 80%, and 100%, respectively. Similarly, oral HPV (any 9v types) declined by 11%, 33%, 57%, and 71% across the same levels of vaccine uptake. Comparing the prevention strategies, condoms blocked the greatest number of anal transmissions when vaccination was at or below present-day levels. For oral transmission, vaccination was superior to condom use at all levels of coverage.

CONCLUSIONS

Public health HPV preventions strategies should continue to emphasize the complementary roles of condoms and vaccination, especially for preventing oral infection. Improving vaccination coverage will ultimately have the greatest impact on reducing HPV infection among YMSM.

Human Papillomavirus Seroprevalence and Association with Anal HPV Infection and Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions in Australian Gay and Bisexual Men

Background: Gay and bisexual men (GBM) are at disproportionately high risk of anal cancer. The precursor lesions, high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), are very common and it is evident that not all HSIL progresses to cancer. The serologic response to anal human papillomavirus (HPV) in GBM has not been well characterized.Methods: The Study of the Prevention of Anal Cancer is an ongoing cohort study of GBM ages 35 years and older. At six visits over three years, anal samples are collected for cytology, HPV DNA testing, and histology. Baseline serum was tested for HPV L1, E6, and E7 antibodies for 10 HPV types. Seroprevalence and associated predictors were analyzed.Results: A total of 588 of 617 participants were included in this analysis. A total of 436 (74.2%) were seropositive for at least one of the 10 HPV types. Almost half had L1 antibodies to HPV6 (48.5%), over a third to HPV11 (36.4%) and HPV16 (34.5%). HIV-positive men were more likely to be HPV L1 seropositive. HSIL detection was highest among participants who were HPV serology and DNA positive. There was a borderline significant association between presence of HPV16 E6 antibodies and prevalent HSIL (OR = 2.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.92-9.60; P = 0.068).Conclusions: HPV L1 seropositivity was common in this cohort of older GBM. These results suggest that HPV L1 seropositivity, in conjunction with anal HPV DNA detection, predicts concurrent HSIL. The apparent association between HPV16 E6 antibodies and prevalent HSIL is a finding with potential clinical significance that needs further exploration.Impact: HPV seropositivity with concurrent DNA detection predicted anal HSIL detection. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(7); 768-75. ©2018 AACR.

HPV Unvaccinated Status and HPV Sexual Risk Behaviour are Common among Canadian Young Adult Women and Men

OBJECTIVE

The current research focuses on sexual risk behaviour among young adult Canadians who have not been vaccinated against HPV.

METHODS

Six hundred and forty-six Canadian university undergraduates completed a self-administered survey assessing HPV vaccination status and sexual risk behaviour.

RESULTS

Five hundred and thirty-seven participants (154 men and 383 women aged 17-23) who met eligibility criteria were analyzed. 48.5% (n = 185) of female and 89.6% (n = 138) of male participants had not been vaccinated against HPV. In the unvaccinated cohort, 51.4% (n = 95) of women were coitally experienced, 49.2% (n = 91) reported experience with oral sex, and 6.5% (n = 12) reported experience with receptive anal intercourse. 55.1% (n = 76) of men were coitally experienced, 22.5% (n = 31) of men reported receptive oral sex, and 2.9% (n = 4) of men reported receptive anal intercourse. Using validated sexual risk behaviour cut-offs, we determined that in the female unvaccinated population, the proportion at significantly increased risk for genital warts, cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancer was 11.0%, 30.0%, 6.5%, and 49.2% respectively. In the male unvaccinated population, the proportion at significantly elevated risk for genital warts and anal cancer was 27.2% and 2.9% respectively.

CONCLUSION

Unvaccinated young Canadian women and men commonly engaged in sexual risk behaviours for HPV infection, engaged in sexual risk behaviours at a similar level as their vaccinated counterparts, and a substantial number were at elevated risk of HPV related morbidities at a young age. Findings contribute to an evidence-based case for redoubling efforts to encourage HPV vaccination among unvaccinated young Canadians who are at risk of HPV infection.

CDC's Male Circumcision Recommendations Represent a Key Public Health Measure

Frisch and Earp, opponents of male circumcision, have criticized draft recommendations from the CDC that advocate counseling men and parents of newborn boys in the United States about the benefits and risks of male circumcision. We provide a rebuttal to Frisch and Earp's criticisms and contend that the recommendations are entirely appropriate and merit consideration for policy development.

Vaccine-preventable anal human papillomavirus in Australian gay and bisexual men

OBJECTIVE

HPV causes ~90% of anal cancer and HPV16 is the type most commonly associated with anal cancer. Gay and bisexual men (GBM) are at greatly increased risk. We investigated patterns of vaccine-preventable anal HPV in older GBM.

METHODS

The Study of the Prevention of Anal Cancer (SPANC) is an ongoing, prospective cohort study of HIV-positive and HIV-negative Australian GBM. Participants completed questionnaires and underwent an anal swab for HPV genotyping using Roche Linear Array. We analysed baseline data from SPANC by HPV type, mean number of types, stratified by age and HIV status.

RESULTS

Anal HPV results from 606 (98.2%) of 617 participants (median age 49 years, 35.7% HIV-positive) showed 525 (86.7%) had ≥1 HPV type and 178 (29.4%) had HPV16. Over one third of participants (214, 35.3%) had no nonavalent vaccine-preventable types detected. Two (0.3%) participants had all quadrivalent types and none had all nonavalent vaccine types. HIV-positive participants (p<0.001) and younger participants (p=0.059) were more likely to have more vaccine-preventable HPV types detected.

CONCLUSION

Anal HPV was highly prevalent in this largely community-based GBM cohort. Vaccine-preventable HPV16 was detected in approximately one third of participants. These findings suggest that the potential efficacy of HPV vaccination of older GBM should be explored.

Human papillomavirus antibody response following HAART initiation among MSM

OBJECTIVE

To describe effects of HAART on high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) antibody response in HIV-positive MSM and the meaning of this response for subsequent HPV-related cancer risk.

DESIGN

Prospective seroepidemiological study of 281 HIV-positive MSM initiating HAART between 1995 and 2004 in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study.

METHODS

For each individual, two serum samples, one at HAART initiation (pre-HAART) and another 24 months later (post-HAART), were tested for L1 antibodies to HPV6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 45, 52 and 58, as well as HPV16-E6 antibodies, using a multiplex serology assay. Identification of HPV-related cancer included data linkage with Swiss cancer registries.

RESULTS

Pre-HAART, 45.2% were seropositive for any high-risk HPV-L1 and 32.4% for HPV16-L1. Sexual intercourse during the last 6 months was the only evaluated factor associated with L1 seropositivity pre-HAART. Seropositivity increased post-HAART to 60.5% for any high-risk HPV-L1 [prevalence ratio versus pre-HAART = 1.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.14-1.57] and 48.0% for HPV16-L1 (prevalence ratio versus pre-HAART = 1.48, 95% CI 1.20-1.83), and seroconversion was significantly associated with both lower CD4 cell count and CD4/CD8 ratio (P < 0.01). Only one individual was HPV16-E6-seropositive pre-HAART, but two more seroconverted post-HAART. Anal cancer incidence among the three HPV16-E6-positives post-HAART was significantly increased compared with HPV16-E6-negatives (incidence rate ratio = 63.1, 95% CI 1.1-1211).

CONCLUSION

HAART-related immune reconstitution increases HPV-specific antibody responses, which may discriminate future anal cancer risk in this high-risk population.

Early infant male circumcision: Systematic review, risk-benefit analysis, and progress in policy

AIM

To determine whether recent evidence-based United States policies on male circumcision (MC) apply to comparable Anglophone countries, Australia and New Zealand.

METHODS

Articles in 2005 through 2015 were retrieved from PubMed using the keyword "circumcision" together with 36 relevant subtopics. A further PubMed search was performed for articles published in 2016. Searches of the EMBASE and Cochrane databases did not yield additional citable articles. Articles were assessed for quality and those rated 2+ and above according to the Scottish Intercollegiate Grading System were studied further. The most relevant and representative of the topic were included. Bibliographies were examined to retrieve further key references. Randomized controlled trials, recent high quality systematic reviews or meta-analyses (level 1++ or 1+ evidence) were prioritized for inclusion. A risk-benefit analysis of articles rated for quality was performed. For efficiency and reliability, recent randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, high quality systematic reviews and large well-designed studies were used if available. Internet searches were conducted for other relevant information, including policies and Australian data on claims under Medicare for MC.

RESULTS

Evidence-based policy statements by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) support infant and later age male circumcision (MC) as a desirable public health measure. Our systematic review of relevant literature over the past decade yielded 140 journal articles that met our inclusion criteria. Together, these showed that early infant MC confers immediate and lifelong benefits by protecting against urinary tract infections having potential adverse long-term renal effects, phimosis that causes difficult and painful erections and "ballooning" during urination, inflammatory skin conditions, inferior penile hygiene, candidiasis, various sexually transmissible infections in both sexes, genital ulcers, and penile, prostate and cervical cancer. Our risk-benefit analysis showed that benefits exceeded procedural risks, which are predominantly minor, by up to 200 to 1. We estimated that more than 1 in 2 uncircumcised males will experience an adverse foreskin-related medical condition over their lifetime. Wide-ranging evidence from surveys, physiological measurements, and the anatomical location of penile sensory receptors responsible for sexual sensation strongly and consistently suggested that MC has no detrimental effect on sexual function, sensitivity or pleasure. United States studies showed that early infant MC is cost saving. The evidence supporting early infant MC has further strengthened since the positive AAP and CDC reviews.

CONCLUSION

Affirmative MC policies are needed in Australia and New Zealand. Routine provision of accurate, unbiased education, and access in public hospitals, will maximize health and financial benefits.

Antibody responses following incident anal and penile infection with human papillomavirus in teenage men who have sex with men

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at risk for human papillomavirus (HPV)-related anal cancer. Few data exist on antibody responses following incident anogenital infection with HPV in teenage MSM. A cohort of 200 MSM aged 16-20 years from Melbourne, Australia were assessed at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. At each visit anal and penile swabs were collected for HPV DNA and serum for HPV antibodies for genotypes 6, 11, 16 and 18 (Merck's Multiplex Assays using Luminex). The main outcome, seroconversion, was defined as the detection of HPV antibodies following a negative antibody result for the same HPV type at baseline. The seroincidence rates for HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18 were: 19 (95% CI 12-26), 7 (3-12), 4 (1-8) and 6 (3-11) per 100 person-years, respectively. Men who experienced incident anal HPV infections from types 6/11 were significantly more likely to develop serum antibodies to the same HPV type(s) than those who experienced incident anal infections from types 16/18 [73 vs. 18%, odds ratio (OR) = 15, 95% CI: 2-118]. The median time between incident anal HPV infection and seroconversion for HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18 was: 91, 38, 161 and 182 days, respectively. Antibody responses against HPV types 6/11 were significantly more likely to occur following incident anal compared with incident penile infection with HPV types 6/11 (OR = 6, 95% CI: 2-21). The likelihood of antibody responses following anogenital HPV infections depends on the HPV type and site of infection.

HIV is an important risk factor for human papillomavirus types 16 and 18 seropositivity among sexually active men who have sex with men

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether HIV infection is a main risk factor for human papillomavirus (HPV)-16 and HPV-18 seropositivity in men who have sex with men (MSM), and what other risk factors are associated with HPV-16 and HPV-18 seropositivity in this population.

METHODS

Men who have sex with men visiting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic in Amsterdam in 2008 to 2009 answered questions concerning demographics and sexual behavior. Sera were tested for HPV antibodies to the major HPV capsid protein L1 by Luminex-based multiplex serology. As it is known that site of exposure is associated with seropositivity, this analysis was restricted to MSM who reported receptive anal sex during the preceding 6 months. Using multivariable logistic regression, we examined whether HIV was associated with HPV serostatus.

RESULTS

Included in the study were 415 HIV-negative and 205 HIV-positive MSM reporting receptive anal sex. Median age of the study population was 39 years (interquartile range, 31-44). Human papillomavirus seroprevalence differed significantly between HIV-negative and HIV-positive MSM: 31% versus 65% (P < 0.001) for HPV-16 and 28% versus 51% (P < 0.001) for HPV-18. After adjusting for important risk factors HPV-16 (adjusted odds ratio, 2.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.75-4.49) and HPV-18 (adjusted odds ratio, 1.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-2.85), seropositivity was significantly more common in HIV-positive than in HIV-negative MSM. We could not identify other consistent risk factors for HPV-16 and HPV-18 seropositivity.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV infection is an important risk factor for HPV-16 and HPV-18 seropositivity among MSM reporting receptive anal sex in the preceding 6 months.

Comparison of age-specific patterns of sexual behaviour and anal HPV prevalence in homosexual men with patterns in women

OBJECTIVES

Anal human papillomavirus (HPV) is highly prevalent in men who have sex with men (MSM) of all ages, whereas cervical HPV declines with age. We explore the hypothesis that different sexual behavioural patterns are the basis of this difference in age distribution.

METHODS

Published data on age-specific HPV prevalence for women (cervical HPV) were extracted from a large meta-analysis and for MSM (anal HPV) from the EXPLORE study of HIV-negative MSM. Age-specific data on recent sexual activity were extracted from two behavioural surveys: the second Australian Study of Health and Relationships survey and the 2013 Gay Community Periodic Survey.

RESULTS

At least 50% of MSM at all ages reported more than one sexual partner in the past 6 months. In comparison, 33% of women aged 16-19 years reported more than one partner over the past year. This decreased to 19% and 6% in women aged 20-29 and 30-39 years, respectively, and to fewer than 5% of women in older age groups. Prevalent anal HPV was detected in over 50% of MSM in each age group. Prevalence did not decline with age. In contrast, there was a steady decrease in cervical HPV prevalence with age. Cervical HPV prevalence fell from 23% among North American women aged <25 years to 3% in women aged ≥65 years.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to the decreasing prevalence with age among heterosexual women, the high prevalence and lack of decline in prevalent anal HPV among older MSM are likely to be related to continuing high rates of newly acquired HPV infection from ongoing sexual exposure through new partners.

Seroepidemiology of high-risk HPV in HIV-negative and HIV-infected MSM: the H2M study

BACKGROUND

Men who have sex with men (MSM), in particular HIV-infected MSM, are at increased risk for diseases related to human papilloma virus (HPV). Our goal was to assess the effect of HIV status on the presence of type-specific antibodies against seven high-risk HPV types in HPV-unvaccinated MSM. Moreover, we compared determinants of HPV seropositivity between HIV-negative and HIV-infected MSM.

METHODS

MSM ≥18 years of age were recruited from the Amsterdam Cohort Studies, a sexually transmitted infection clinic, and an HIV-treatment center in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Participants completed a risk-factor questionnaire; serum samples were analyzed using a fluorescent bead-based multiplex assay.

RESULTS

MSM (n = 795) were recruited in 2010 to 2011; 758 MSM were included in this analysis. Median age was 40.1 years (interquartile range 34.8-47.5) and 308 MSM (40.6%) were HIV-infected. Seroprevalence of HPV-16 was 37.1% in HIV-negative and 62.7% in HIV-infected MSM (P < 0.001); seroprevalence of HPV-18 was 29.1% in HIV-negative MSM and 42.5% in HIV-infected MSM (P < 0.001). Similar patterns of seroprevalence were observed for HPV types 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. In multivariable analyses, HPV seropositivity was associated with HIV infection [adjusted OR = 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.6-2.6]. In multivariable analyses stratified by HIV status, increasing age and number of lifetime male sex partners were significantly associated with HPV seropositivity in HIV-negative, but not HIV-infected MSM.

CONCLUSIONS

Seroprevalence of high-risk HPV types is high among unvaccinated MSM.

IMPACT

HIV infection is a strong and independent determinant for HPV seropositivity, which we hypothesize is because of increased persistence of HPV infection in HIV-infected MSM.

Veracity and rhetoric in paediatric medicine: a critique of Svoboda and Van Howe's response to the AAP policy on infant male circumcision

In a recent issue of the Journal of Medical Ethics,Svoboda and Van Howe commented on the 2012 changein the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) policy on newborn male circumcision, in which the AAP stated that benefits of the procedure outweigh the risks. Svoboda and Van Howe disagree with the AAP conclusions. We show here that their arguments against male circumcision are based on a poor understanding of epidemiology,erroneous interpretation of the evidence, selective citation of the literature, statistical manipulation of data, and circular reasoning. In reality, the scientific evidence indicates that male circumcision, especially when performed in the newborn period, is an ethically and medically sound low-risk preventive health procedure conferring a lifetime of benefits to health and well-being.Policies in support of parent-approved elective newborn circumcision should be embraced by the medical,scientific and wider communities.

Human papillomavirus and vaccine-related perceptions among men who have sex with men: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Targeted human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine could prevent HPV-related cancers and genital warts among men who have sex with men (MSM). In order to develop effective vaccination programmes for MSM, it is crucial to understand their knowledge, beliefs about HPV and attitudes towards HPV vaccine.

METHODS

A systematic search of 10 databases examined articles investigating HPV knowledge and HPV-related perceptions among MSM. Each paper was assessed to identify potential research directions in the context of targeted HPV vaccination for MSM.

RESULTS

We identified 16 studies that included 5185 MSM and conducted mainly in North America. Generally, participants were over 26 years old, had poor-to-moderate knowledge about HPV and were not concerned about HPV-related diseases. Over a half of MSM were willing to accept HPV vaccine, if offered. However, there was large variability in HPV vaccine acceptability, partially due to inconsistencies in methods of ascertainment but also different levels of HPV vaccine awareness.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite several misconceptions and poor knowledge of HPV infection, MSM might be receptive to HPV vaccination. However, further research is needed to identify which factors contribute to potential vaccine uptake in hypothetical MSM-targeted HPV vaccination. Future studies need to target those MSM with little sexual experience, who would benefit most from HPV vaccination.

Prevalence of human papillomavirus in men who have sex with men in the era of an effective vaccine; a call to act

OBJECTIVES

The incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated anal cancer is increasing. Men who have sex with men (MSM), particularly those coinfected with HIV, are disproportionately affected. Documenting the molecular epidemiology of HPV infection is important in guiding policy makers in formulating universal and/or targeted vaccine guidelines.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted. HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM > 18 years old were invited to participate. Provider-performed anal swabs were collected and anal HPV infection was detected using consensus primer solution phase polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by type-specific PCR for high-risk (HR)-HPV types 16, 18 and 31. Between-group differences were analysed using χ(2) tests and Wilcoxon rank tests.

RESULTS

One hundred and ninety-four MSM [mean (standard deviation (SD)) age 36 (10) years; 51% HIV-positive) were recruited. The median number of sexual contacts in the preceding 12 months was 4 (interquartile range 2-10). HIV-positive subjects had a mean (SD) CD4 count of 557 (217) cells/μL, and 84% were on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Thirty-one samples were B-globin negative and thus excluded from further analysis. A total of 113 subjects (69%) had detectable HPV DNA. Sixty-eight subjects (42%) had an HR-HPV type detected. HR HPV type 16 was detected in 44 samples (27%), HR-HPV type 18 in 26 samples (16%) and HR-HPV type 31 in 14 samples (23%). Twenty-eight subjects (17%) had more than one type of HR-HPV type detected. When HPV and HR-HPV were stratified by age, those > 35 years had a higher prevalence (P = 0.001 and P = 0.028, respectively). HIV-positive subjects were more likely than HIV-negative subjects to have any detectable HPV (77% vs. 61%, respectively; P = 0.04), to have HR-HPV type 18 or 31 (P = 0.05 and P = 0.006, respectively) and to be infected with more than one HR-HPV type (31% vs. 3%, respectively; P < 0.001). Within the HIV-positive group, the prevalence of HPV was higher in those not on HAART (P = 0.041), although it did not differ when stratified by CD4 count.

CONCLUSIONS

The identified prevalence of anal HPV infection was high. 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.

Anal, penile, and oral high-risk HPV infections and HPV seropositivity in HIV-positive and HIV-negative men who have sex with men

The effects of single or multiple concordant HPV infections at various anatomical sites on type-specific HPV seropositivity are currently unknown. In this cross-sectional study we assessed whether high-risk HPV infections at various anatomical sites (i.e., anal canal, penile shaft, and oral cavity), as well as concordant infections at multiple anatomical sites, were associated with type-specific seropositivity in HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM. MSM aged ≥ 18 years were recruited in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (2010-2011). Baseline anal, penile, and oral samples were analyzed for HPV DNA and genotyped using a highly sensitive PCR and reverse line blot assay. Virus-like particle (VLP) based multiplex immunoassay was used to asses HPV-specific serum antibodies against L1 VLPs. The associations between HPV infections and type-specific seropositivity of seven high-risk HPV types (7-hrHPV: types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58) were estimated using logistic regression analyses with generalized estimating equations. We found that 86% of 306 HIV-positive MSM and 62% of 441 HIV-negative MSM were seropositive for at least one 7-hrHPV type. 69% of HIV-positive and 41% of HIV-negative MSM were infected with at least one 7-hrHPV type at the anus, penis, or oral cavity. In multivariable analyses, 7-hrHPV seropositivity was associated with type-specific anal (and not penile) 7-hrHPV infection, and did not significantly increase with a higher number of infected anatomical sites. Oral 7-hrHPV infection showed a positive, albeit non-significant, association with seropositivity. In conclusion, seropositivity among MSM appears to be largely associated with anal HPV infection, irrespective of additionally infected anatomical sites.

Effect of human papillomavirus and Chlamydia trachomatis co-infection on sperm quality in young heterosexual men with chronic prostatitis-related symptoms

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of human papillomavirus (HPV) and Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) co-infection on sperm concentration, motility and morphology, in a large cohort of young heterosexual male patients with chronic prostatitis-related symptoms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with chronic prostatitis-related symptoms, attending the same centre for sexually transmitted diseases from January 2005 and December 2010, were consecutively enrolled in this cross-sectional study. All patients underwent clinical and instrumental examination, microbiological cultures for common bacteria, DNA extraction, mucosal and serum antibodies evaluation for Ct, specific tests for HPV and semen analysis. The semen variables analysed were: volume; pH; sperm concentration; motility; and morphology. Subjects were subdivided in two groups: group A, patients with Ct infection alone and group B, patients with Ct and HPV co-infection. The main outcome measurement was the effect of Ct and HPV co-infection on the semen variables examined.

RESULTS

Of 3050 screened patients, 1003 were enrolled (32.9%) in the study. A total of 716 (71.3%) patients were allocated to group A, and 287 (28.7%) to group B. Significant differences between the two groups were reported in terms of percentage of motile sperm (degrees of freedom [df] = 1001; t-test = 11.85; P < 0.001) and percentage of normal morphological forms (df = 1001; t-test = 7.18; P < 0.001), while no differences were reported in terms of semen volume or pH. According to World Health Organization thresholds for normal semen, 364 (50.8%) men in group A and 192 (66.8%) men in group B were subfertile (odds ratio = 1.95; 95% confidence interval 1.46-2.60; P < 0.001). No correlation between HPV genotype, mucosal IgA type and semen variables was found.

CONCLUSION

In a population of prostatitis-related symptoms attributable to Ct infection, co-infection with HPV has a significant role in decreasing male fertility, in particular with regard to sperm motility and morphology.

Australian sexually transmissible infection and HIV testing guidelines for asymptomatic men who have sex with men 2014: a review of the evidence

Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Australia and overseas are disproportionately affected by sexually transmissible infections (STIs), including HIV. Many STIs are asymptomatic, so regular testing and management of asymptomatic MSM remains an important component of effective control. We reviewed articles from January 2009–May 2013 to inform the 2014 update of the 2010 Australian testing guidelines for asymptomatic MSM. Key changes include: a recommendation for pharyngeal chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis) testing, use of nucleic acid amplification tests alone for gonorrhoea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) testing (without gonococcal culture), more frequent (up to four times a year) gonorrhoea and chlamydia testing in sexually active HIV-positive MSM, time required since last void for chlamydia first-void urine collection specified at 20 min, urethral meatal swab as an alternative to first-void urine for urethral chlamydia testing, and the use of electronic reminders to increase STI and HIV retesting rates among MSM.

Route of sexual exposure is independently associated with seropositivity to HPV-16 and HPV-18 among clients of an STI clinic in the Netherlands

We investigated the route of sexual exposure as a determinant for human papillomavirus (HPV)-16 and HPV-18 seropositivity. At the Amsterdam sexually transmitted infections clinic we recruited 4 risk groups: (1) men who have sex with women only (MSW; n = 751); (2) women who have sex with men (WSM; n = 749); (3) men who have sex with men (MSM) reporting insertive anal sex only (insMSM; n = 156); and (4) MSM reporting receptive anal sex (recMSM; n = 415). In multivariable analyses, HPV-16 seropositivity was significantly more common in WSM vs MSW, recMSM vs MSW, and recMSM vs insMSM. HPV-18 results were similar. Route of sexual exposure is independently associated with HPV seropositivity.

Should male circumcision be advocated for genital cancer prevention?

The recent policy statement by the Cancer Council of Australia on infant circumcision and cancer prevention and the announcement that the quadrivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine will be made available for boys in Australia prompted us to provide an assessment of genital cancer prevention. While HPV vaccination of boys should help reduce anal cancer in homosexual men and cervical cancer in women, it will have little or no impact on penile or prostate cancer. Male circumcision can reduce cervical, penile and possibly prostate cancer. Promotion of both HPV vaccination and male circumcision will synergistically maximize genital cancer prevention.