Researcher Adrian Ludlam says the rising rates of anal HPV-related disease in gay and bisexual men raise serious health equity issues. Data collection for a study looking into human papilloma virus (HPV) among New Zealand men has nearly wrapped up, as pressure remains for the funded vaccine to be given to boys. The Gay Men’s Sexual Health research group is carrying out research with the University of Auckland’s Immunisation Advisory Centre, supported by Auckland Sexual Health Service, Auckland City Hospital and an Auckland City general practice. “Currently little is known about HPV in New Zealand men. Our study is an initial investigation into the prevalence of HPV in the mouth and anus, awareness of HPV and related cancers among men, and acceptability of the vaccine,” says PhD candidate and Gay Men’s Sexual Health research group member Adrian Ludlam. He says HPV is a common STI that in some people persists and causes cancer of the mouth and throat, penis or anus, or cervix. A safe and effective vaccine is available, in Gardasil, but in New Zealand this is only funded for young women, not young men. “A particular concern is the rising rates of anal HPV-related disease seen internationally in gay and bisexual men, that are 20 times higher than in heterosexual men - for HIV positive gay men these are higher still. This raises serious health equity issues,” Ludlam says. The Ministry of Health has been considering funding the vaccine for young gay and bisexual men, however experts say that could be tricky – as many youths in the target group may not know their sexuality or could be reluctant to come forward to get vaccinated under a 'gay-only' scheme. Ultimately, the decision will be made by drug buying agency Pharmac.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Thursday, 30th July 2015 - 11:04am