While it has been known for decades that people with HIV have an increased risk for certain types of cancers (such as Kaposi's sarcoma), a new study suggests that they are also more likely to develop cancers that haven't been traditionally associated with AIDS.
"When you cut through the confusing term 'non-AIDS cancer,' it looks like people with HIV are at higher risk for cancer across the board," ACSH's Dr. Elizabeth Whelan says. Doctors believe that more HIV-positive patients are developing cancers because they are living longer, largely thanks to breakthrough drugs.
ACSH's Dr. Ruth Kava concludes, "When your immune system is compromised by HIV, you're at higher risk for many complications, including cancers of various types."