December 17, 2008 HIV infection, because it weakens the immune
system, is linked to an increased risk for the development of
certain cancers, including the following: This cancer risk
arises in part because the various viruses that cause these
cancers are sexually transmitted and commonly found in HIV
positive people. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is
widely available in most high-income countries. This therapy
works by decreasing levels of HIV, allowing the immune system to
begin repairing itself. However, the renewal of the immune
system is only partial, despite years of using HAART. Because of
this incomplete recovery, HAART users remain at heightened risk
for cancer. Among some people at risk for and who have HIV, the
use of illicit drugs, such as the following, is relatively
common: Some of these drugs can weaken the immune system. Not
surprisingly, American researchers who monitor the health of
substance users with HIV infection have uncovered some troubling
trends. Specifically, the use o