Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Anal Human Papillomavirus Infection in a Sample of Young, Predominantly Black Men Who Have Sex With Men, Houston, Texas

Abstract

Background: Young men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk for human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated disease as a result of HPV infection. Our objective was to characterize the prevalence of high-risk anal HPV infection and factors associated with prevalence in a group of young, primarily black MSM in Houston, Texas.

Methods: MSM aged 18-29 years were recruited using a respondent-driven sampling method to study HIV and sexually transmitted disease transmission and risk. All engaged in peer-recruitment chains and self-collected anal exfoliated cells. Prevalence ratios assessed factors associated with high-risk HPV and HPV types in the 9-valent vaccine.

Results: Black race was reported by 87% of men. Slightly over one half (53%) were human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive. Approximately 75% of men had at least 1 high-risk HPV type, and 39% of HIV-positive men harbored HPV-16. Analysis that controlled for potential confounders revealed that only HIV infection was associated with high-risk HPV infection.

Conclusion: Black MSM would benefit from increased HPV vaccination efforts, owing to high rates of HPV infection, increased HPV disease, and low vaccination series completion rates in this population.

Keywords: African American; Human papillomavirus; men who have sex with men; prevalence; vaccination.