Prevalence and Genotypic Diversity of Human Papillomavirus Infection Among Male and Female Sex Workers in Thailand

Abstract

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with cancer. Female sex workers (FSWs) are known to be at risk for HPV, but little is known about male sex workers (MSWs). Methods We examined HPV prevalence and associated risk factors in both populations. During 2022, HPV testing using vaginal or penile samples, HIV testing, and interviews were performed among 100 MSWs and 100 FSWs in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Results The prevalence of all HPV types was 63.5% (66% in MSW, 61% in FSW), HPV-16 prevalence was 14%, HPV-52 was 13%, and HPV-18 was 4%. There was no difference between MSW and FSW for these subtypes. The prevalence of HPV-16 or HPV-18 was 17%, and for HPV-16, HPV-18, or HPV-52, it was 26%. HIV-positive participants had a higher prevalence of all HPV types (94% vs. 60%, P = 0.004), HPV-16 or HPV-18 (39% vs. 15%, P = 0.018), and HPV-16, HPV-18, or HPV-52 (50% vs. 23%, P = 0.017). Conclusions We demonstrated an equally high HPV prevalence across the sexes. Further studies are needed to determine if this indicates an equal risk for cancer. Increased HPV awareness, screening, and vaccination should be considered, regardless of gender.