This retrospective study examines the incidence and characteristics of anal cancer among people living with HIV over a 36-year period at a Greek reference center. A total of 3,105 patients followed at the Special Infectious Diseases Unit of "Andreas Sygros" Hospital were evaluated for demographic and clinical data, including CD4 counts and outcomes. Thirty-one cases of anal cancer were identified, predominantly among males (29/31). The mean age at diagnosis was 48.81 years, and CD4 counts were low at diagnosis (mean 378.6 cells/mm³). 14 patients died from anal cancer, 4 from other causes, 10 remain under follow-up, and 3 were lost to follow-up. These findings highlight that people with HIV, especially those with low CD4 counts, face an increased risk of anal cancer even with effective antiretroviral therapy. Persistent HPV co-infection exacerbates this risk. Regular screening, early detection, and preventive measures such as vaccination and behavioral interventions are essential to reduce disease burden and mortality. Psychosocial factors - including HIV-related stigma, anal sex stigma, and limited social support - may also affect healthcare engagement and willingness for anal cancer screening. Addressing these factors alongside medical interventions is crucial for prevention and early diagnosis.
Paschou et al. (Mon,) studied this question.