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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Have you had or have Cancer?

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Geneva, IL

Unfortunately, many long term and/or untreated HIV patients develop some form of cancer. Have you experienced this?

March 11, 2024 (edited)
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members shared deeply personal experiences with various cancers in response to a question about the connection between HIV and cancer, with... Read more

Members shared deeply personal experiences with various cancers in response to a question about the connection between HIV and cancer, with many mentioning skin cancers (basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma), while others described dealing with anal cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, T-cell leukemia, and pre-cancerous cells requiring monitoring or surgery. Several members offered practical advice and reassurance to those awaiting test results or facing diagnoses, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings, early detection, and following dermatologist recommendations, with many expressing gratitude for catching abnormalities before they progressed. A recurring theme was the emotional weight of cancer fears balanced by hope found in community support, improved treatments, and stories of successful remission, with members frequently acknowledging both the seriousness of cancer and the comfort that comes from shared experiences and medical vigilance.

A myHIVteam Member

Jimnowlen you must have a great immune system in general. Having the ccr5 mutation and your prostate cancer staying controlled. Even though no one wants cancer or HIV at least it seems your immune system is on your side and fighting more than many. Hope it stays that way

March 11, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

I had skin cancer and had a tumor removed. I wear sunscreen at all times now.

March 11, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

I have had two different types of cancer:
a) Metastatic Kaposi Sarcoma from 1999 to 2006
b) Squamous Cell Carcinoma from 2010 to 2012
I am on surveillance yearly and I am cancer free. If anyone is worried or has questions about these cancers, I am more than happy to share my experience with you.

March 12, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

@A myHIVteam Member. The abnormal squamous cells you have are not cancer. The question that will be answered in two months is how often you need to monitor for a change in those cells (4 months, 6 months, annually?).

Squamous cell carcinoma is almost 100% survivable, if caught early. Yours has been caught even before you have cancer. I'd say you are in good shape. Don't lose sleep over this, buddy.♥️

Keep us posted.👍

March 12, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

I honestly did not know there was a correlation between hiv & cancer. This is the first I'm hearing about this.

March 11, 2024

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