# Immunodeficiency, HIV Viremia, and Incident Anal Cancer Among People With HIV in South Africa

## TL;DR

This study shows that people with HIV in South Africa who have lower CD4 counts are at higher risk for anal cancer.

## Contribution

The study identifies CD4 count as a key factor in anal cancer risk among people with HIV in South Africa.

## Key findings

- 60 anal cancers were diagnosed among 130,992 people with HIV in South Africa.
- Lower CD4 counts were strongly associated with increased anal cancer risk.
- Higher HIV RNA viral loads showed a weaker association with anal cancer risk.

## Abstract

Among 130 992 people with HIV (PWH) in South Africa, 60 anal cancers were diagnosed. Lower CD4 counts and, to a lesser extent, higher HIV RNA viral loads were associated with an increased anal cancer risk. Maintaining high CD4 counts may contribute to anal cancer prevention among PWH in South Africa.