LGBTQ+ Health and Wellness: Preventing HPV and Related Cancers

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that affects both men and women. It is estimated that 79 million Americans are infected with HPV yearly, the most common sexually transmitted disease worldwide. However, the prevalence of HPV is higher in the LGBTQ+ community, which includes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning individuals. This article will discuss the relationship between HPV and the LGBTQ+ community and what measures can be taken to prevent HPV transmission and related cancers.

HPV and LGBTQ+ Individuals: Why is There an Increased Risk?

LGBTQ+ individuals are at an increased risk of contracting HPV due to several factors. Firstly, HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. Many LGBTQ+ individuals may engage in sexual behaviors that put them at a higher risk of contracting HPV, such as oral or anal sex. Additionally, there is a higher prevalence of smoking among the LGBTQ+ community, which can weaken the immune system and make it easier for HPV to cause infection. Furthermore, some LGBTQ+ individuals may face barriers to accessing healthcare, including routine screenings and vaccinations. This can lead to a lack of knowledge about HPV and how to prevent it, as well as access to HPV vaccines and regular cervical cancer screenings.

HPV-Related Cancers in the LGBTQ+ Community

HPV can cause several types of cancer, including cervical, anal, oral, and throat. HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer in women and the leading cause of anal cancer in both men and women. The prevalence of these cancers is higher among the LGBTQ+ community compared to the general population.

For example, gay and bisexual men are 17 times more likely to develop anal cancer than heterosexual men. Transgender individuals are also at a higher risk of developing anal and cervical cancer due to a higher prevalence of receptive anal sex and a lack of routine cervical cancer screenings.

Prevention Measures

Preventing HPV transmission is essential to reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers in the LGBTQ+ community. Here are some preventative measures that can be taken:

1. HPV Vaccination: HPV vaccines are safe and effective in preventing the transmission of the most common strains of HPV that cause cancer. The HPV vaccine is recommended for all individuals aged 9-26, including LGBTQ+ individuals.
2. Safe Sexual Practices: Using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity can reduce the risk of HPV transmission. It is also important to have open and honest conversations with sexual partners about sexual history and STI testing.
3. Regular Screenings: Regular cervical cancer screenings are essential for cisgender women and transgender men who have a cervix. It is recommended that individuals aged 21-29 have a Pap test every three years, while individuals aged 30-65 have a Pap test every three years or a combined Pap and HPV test every five years.
4. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers, as smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder for the body to fight off HPV infections.
5. AHCC Supplement: AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) is a dietary supplement made from mushrooms that have been shown to enhance the immune system's response to HPV. Some studies have suggested that AHCC may help the body clear the virus and reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers. While more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of AHCC in preventing HPV, it may be a valuable supplement for individuals at high risk of HPV, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.

HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that affects both men and women, and the LGBTQ+ community is at an increased risk of contracting HPV and related cancers. Individuals in the LGBTQ+ community need to understand the risks associated with HPV and take preventative measures to reduce their risk of infection and related cancers. This includes getting vaccinated, practicing safe sexual practices, quitting smoking, and getting regular screenings.

Additionally, the AHCC supplement may be useful in preventing HPV infection, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. By taking these preventative measures, individuals in the LGBTQ+ community can reduce their risk of HPV and related cancers and improve their overall health and well-being. It is also important to prioritize access to healthcare, including routine screenings and vaccinations, to ensure that all individuals have the knowledge and resources necessary to prevent HPV and related cancers.