Anal human papillomavirus and HIV: An exploratory study among men who have sex with men in Moscow, Russia

Anal human papillomavirus (HPV) is prevalent among men who have sex with men (MSM), but has not been studied in the Russian Federation. HIV seropositive (N=58) and seronegative MSM (N=65) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study in Moscow, Russia, surveyed, and underwent anal cytology and anal HPV genotyping. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify correlates of infection with oncogenic HPV genotypes 16 and/or 18 (HPV 16/18). Some 39.5% of all MSM were infected with at least one anal HPV genotype, 31.7% with HPV16/18, and 11.7% had high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). HPV 16/18 was more prevalent among HIV seropositive than seronegative men (41.4% vs. 23.1%; p=0.03). In the final multivariable model, HIV infection was independently associated with HPV 16/18 (AOR:5.08; 95%CI:1.49–17.34), as were migration to/within Russia (AOR:3.18; 95%CI:1.00–10.09) and having 2–4 steady male sex partners in the last year (vs. ≤1 partner; AOR:6.99; 95%CI:1.94–25.24). History of jail/prison and use of incompatible lubricants were marginally associated with HPV 16/18 (p<0.10). Anal HPV 16/18 was prevalent among this sample of Moscow-based MSM and strongly associated with HIV infection. Correlations with mobility and detention in prison/jail, likely reflect behavioural risk and low healthcare access among marginalized populations that limits access to HIV/STI prevention options. Comprehensive prevention options are needed for MSM in Russia and may benefit from inclusion of young men in piloted HPV vaccination programs.