Type of colon cancer

Two studies published in the June 24 issue of The Lancer(2000; 355:2189-2198) find that increased levels of human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV 16) might put women at risk for cervical cancer. While it is known that certain types of HPV are associated with cervical cancer, researchers at the University of Uppsala (Sweden) claim that the amount of HPV is more predictive than its mere presence. Multiple cervical smears from 1,086 women were studied; 478 of these women developed cervical carcinoma over a period of 26 years. Women whose HPV 16 levels were in the top 20% had 60 times the risk of developing the disease compared with those who were HPV 16 negative. The second study, conducted at the Karolinska Institute (Stockholm), compared smears from 476 women with cervical cancer and 608 controls. Those with the disease had increased HPV 16 load 13 years or more before diagnosis.

A third study, unveiled at the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons meeting (Boston), found HPV 16 is linked to increased incidence of anal cancer in homosexual men. Per every 100,000 HIV-negative homosexual men, 35 have anal cancer, which is four times the incidence of cervical cancer in women, according to Clinica (July 3, 2000). Sixty-five percent of HIV-negative homosexual men carry HPV 16.