Unusual and unique distribution of anal high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) among men who have sex with men living in the Central African Republic

Abstract

MSM in Bangui are at-risk of HIV and HR-HPV anal infections. The unusual distribution of HPV-35 as predominant HPV suggests possible geographic specificities in the molecular epidemiology of HR-HPV in sub-Saharan Africa. Scaling up prevention strategies against HPV infection and related cancers adapted for MSM in Africa should be prioritized. Innovative interventions should be conceived for the MSM population living in Bangui.