A newly released set of federal guidelines created significant LGBTQ attention because it aims to combat anal cancer among individuals with HIV, marking the first U.S. recommendations on this crucial topic. Developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Panel on the Prevention and Treatment of Opportunistic Infections in Adults and Adolescents with HIV, these guidelines emphasize a screening program utilizing high-resolution anoscopy (HRA) to detect and treat precancerous conditions. The guidelines advocate for annual assessments of anal abnormalities in all HIV-positive adults, including digital anorectal examination. For those under 35 with symptoms or abnormalities, standard anoscopy is recommended. Individuals 35 and older who are men who have sex with men or transgender women and those over 45 with HIV should receive lab-based screening followed by HRA if needed. The guidelines draw from the evidence, including the Anal Cancer/HSIL Outcomes Research study, which demonstrated that HRA significantly aids in preventing anal cancer. HRA offers a more precise examination compared to standard anoscopy, though its availability remains limited. In areas where HRA is unavailable, continued use of DARE and standard anoscopy is advised for symptom assessment. The details in this report are very technical and vitally important for the LGBTQ community. For further details, visit Clinicalinfo.hiv.gov.
