HIV and Cervical Cancer: What's the Link?
Women living with HIV are six times more likely to develop cervical cancer than women without HIV. Learn more about the connection between HIV and cervical cancer.
The Link Between HIV and Cervical Cancer
HIV makes you more likely to have an HPV (human papillomavirus) infection, the virus that is associated with cervical cancer. Both HIV and HPV are sexually transmitted infections, and if you have HIV, it’s harder for your body to fight off HPV. This increases the risk of developing cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), a precancerous condition that can lead to cervical cancer if untreated.
Complications of Having Both HIV and Cervical Cancer
If you have both HIV and cervical cancer, there is a higher chance for faster cancer growth and lower chances of effective treatment. The CDC lists cervical cancer as an “AIDS-defining illness,” meaning that if you have it, you may be diagnosed with advanced HIV, or AIDS. People with both HIV and cervical cancer are more likely to die than those with only one of the conditions.
Who Does It Affect Most?
Cervical cancer disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries, where access to prevention and management methods is limited. In certain countries, up to 40% of women with cervical cancer are also living with HIV. In contrast, high-income countries like the U.S. have lower rates of HIV and cervical cancer due to advanced prevention, screenings, and vaccines.
What Can You Do to Avoid HPV and Cervical Cancer?
If you have HIV, getting vaccinated for HPV is one of the best ways to prevent cervical cancer. The CDC recommends the vaccine for all preteens and young adults up to age 26. Regular Pap and HPV tests are also critical for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
Global Recommendations
To reduce deaths from cervical cancer in women with HIV, especially in low- and middle-income countries, the United Nations recommends health education, HPV vaccination for adolescent girls, and regular screenings for women at risk. These programs should include HIV testing and treatment alongside cervical cancer prevention.