Health
Cancer is now leading cause of death among HIV-positive people, report says: ‘Of great concern’
Cancer is now the leading cause of death among those who are HIV positive.
The finding was announced in a report released last week from the American Cancer Society (ACS).
Titled “Cancer Facts & Figures 2024,” the report noted that at least 10 cancers are associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Kaposi sarcoma, cervical cancer, liver cancer, anal cancer, lung cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma.
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HIV-infected people are also 10 times more likely to develop infection-related cancers compared to the general population, the report stated.
Cancer is now the leading cause of death among those who are HIV positive, as noterd in a new report from the American Cancer Society. (iStock)
The HIV/cancer link
People with HIV are seeing longer life expectancy due to improved antiretroviral drugs, noted Nicole B. Saphier, M.D., a New York-based Fox News medical contributor — but this has also led to a higher risk of developing certain cancers.
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“Decades ago, patients were dying from direct complications from HIV and cancers that developed because of a severely weakened immune system, such as lymphoma and Kaposi’s Sarcoma,” Saphier, who is also director of breast imaging at Memorial Sloan Kettering in Monmouth, New Jersey, told Fox News Digital.
“Now, rates of those particular cancers have declined. However, deaths from other cancers have begun to increase, specifically cancers associated with other viruses like HPV.”
People with HIV are more vulnerable to cancer due to a compromised immune system, Saphier said.
Nicole B. Saphier, M.D., shared her input about the link between HIV and cancer mortality. (Fox News)
Azra Borogovac, M.D., a hematologist at City of Hope Orange County in Irvine, California, noted that certain viruses can increase the risk of different types of cancers.
“As a hematologist who treats patients with blood cancers, I’ve seen that HIV-infected people are at increased risk for both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma,” he told Fox News Digital.
“In these individuals, lymphomas are typically more aggressive and are more likely to spread beyond the lymph nodes.”
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While HIV does not directly cause cancer, it affects the immune system in such a way that the person may become more susceptible to other infections that can lead to cancer, said Borogovac.
“When a virus invades the body, it can change the DNA of the cells in ways that make them more susceptible to becoming cancerous,” he told Fox News Digital.
However, the outlook for both HIV and lymphoma have improved greatly over the years due to advances in research and treatment, the doctor pointed out.
Key to curbing cancer rates
Preventive screenings and vaccinations are key to curbing cancer rates among those with HIV, experts agree.
“The shift in mortality patterns underscores the importance of comprehensive health care strategies addressing both HIV management and cancer prevention in this population, including HPV vaccination and cancer screening,” Saphier told Fox News Digital.
Experts recommend regular testing for HIV to prevent transmission. (iStock)
Borogovac said the best way to stop cancer is to prevent it in the first place.
“That starts with taking preventative measures to protect yourself from viruses such as HIV,” he said.
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The virus spreads through bodily fluids, including blood, semen and breast milk.
To prevent transmission, it is recommended that people use contraceptives during sex, limit the number of sexual partners, get tested for HIV and avoid the use of drug needles, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
“While there is currently no vaccine that can protect against HIV, there are medications that help prevent it, including PEP and PrEP,” said Borogovac.
“When a virus invades the body, it can change the DNA of the cells in ways that make them more susceptible to becoming cancerous.”
Overall, the impact of cancer on people who are HIV-positive is “of great concern,” the doctor said, noting that it reflects disparities in cancer care among at-risk groups.
“Many people with HIV face barriers to care — especially those who may not know they have HIV or do not have access to screenings and advanced treatments,” Borogovac said.
Screening is critical to reducing risk, he noted, as individuals who are infected with HIV may not show physical symptoms for many years.
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The CDC recommends that anyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once as part of their routine health care.
Despite the challenges that remain, Borogovac pointed out that there has been much progress in the treatment for the virus since the early days of the HIV epidemic.
“When a virus invades the body, it can change the DNA of the cells in ways that make them more susceptible to becoming cancerous,” an oncologist told Fox News Digital. (iStock)
“Today, FDA-approved antiretroviral therapy (ART) is recommended for everyone living with HIV,” he said, noting that these therapies prevent approximately two-thirds of cancer in individuals with HIV.
“These breakthrough medicines help patients keep HIV under control and prevent transmission to others,” Borogovac noted.
Fox News Digital reached out to the ACS requesting additional comment on the report’s findings.
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More than three-quarters of the global population is falling short on omega-3 intake, a nutrient gap that may increase the risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, inflammation and vision problems.
That’s according to an analysis published in Nutrition Research Reviews, in which researchers from the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton and Holland & Barrett analyzed omega-3 intake patterns across multiple countries and age groups.
The review found that 76% of people worldwide are not meeting the recommended levels of two omega-3 fats that are essential for heart health: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
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The analysis considered recommendations from global health authorities and assessed how closely populations follow them.
Most adults should aim for at least 250 milligrams of EPA and DHA per day, though actual intake is far lower in many regions, according to the researchers.
A new study found that 76% of people fall short of their recommended omega-3 intake. (iStock)
To explore the health implications of low omega-3 intake, Fox News Digital spoke with Michelle Routhenstein, a New York–based preventive cardiology dietitian at Entirely Nourished.
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Low omega-3 levels can have a noticeable impact on heart health, cognitive function and inflammation throughout the body, the expert confirmed.
Low intake can also increase the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac death, she added. It’s also associated with higher triglycerides, irregular heart rhythms and plaque in the arteries.
Most adults should aim for at least 250 milligrams of EPA and DHA per day, researchers say. (iStock)
Inadequate omega-3 levels have also been linked to changes in brain function, including faster cognitive decline, a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease and increased rates of depression.
Routhenstein noted that low levels may also worsen inflammation in autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis, and can negatively affect eye health, since omega-3s play a key structural role in the retina.
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To improve omega-3 levels, the expert said it’s important to understand how much is needed and where to get it.
“The richest dietary sources of EPA and DHA are oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, trout and anchovies,” Routhenstein told Fox News Digital.
Oily fish, such as salmon, are among the richest natural sources of omega-3s. (iStock)
Many people benefit from eating oily fish more frequently, often three to four times per week, Routhenstein noted. For individuals who do not eat fish regularly, supplements can help raise EPA and DHA to healthier levels.
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For those taking omega-3 supplements, dosing should be based on lab results, medications, omega-3 levels and overall medical history, according to Routhenstein. Moderate, quality-controlled supplements are generally considered safe for most people.
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There is also some evidence supporting prescription-strength omega-3 products.
“High-dose EPA, such as 4 grams per day of icosapent ethyl, has been shown to reduce major cardiovascular events in certain high-risk populations, while similar doses of mixed EPA/DHA have not consistently shown the same benefit,” Routhenstein said.
Omega-3 dosing should be individualized based on lab data, medication use, current levels and overall medical history. (iStock)
Testing omega-3 levels can also help determine whether intake is adequate. The omega-3 index, a blood test that measures EPA and DHA in red blood cells, is considered one of the most reliable ways to assess status.
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“Levels around 8% are associated with lower cardiovascular risk, while levels below approximately 4% are considered low,” Routhenstein said.
Understanding baseline levels can help guide more personalized decisions about diet and supplementation.
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Those who are unsure about their omega-3 status or whether supplementation is appropriate should speak with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach.
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As winter weather moves in, cozy essentials like scarves, plush throws and heated bedding become everyday comforts.
But dermatologists caution that these cold-weather favorites can secretly undermine skin health — trapping sweat and bacteria, causing irritation and exposing the skin to excess heat.
Choosing the right materials for wellness — and using them safely — can make a big difference.
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Here are five winter must-haves and gift ideas, with expert tips on how to keep skin healthy and happy while staying warm this season.
Soft scarf, $19.99, Amazon.com
Scarves made of natural fiber, like this one that is 100% cotton, may help if you’re prone to irritation. (Amazon)
A soft scarf is a staple for cold days and an easy way to elevate a winter outfit.
Yet, if breakouts are appearing along the neck, jawline or chest, that favorite accessory may be part of the problem.
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“You should wash your scarf as often as your clothes to prevent breakouts,” Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, a beauty and wellness booking platform headquartered in London, told Fox News Digital.
Cotton is a better choice than polyester, she also noted, as it’s more breathable and allows sweat to evaporate.
Fluffy blankets, $28.97, Potterybarn.com
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin — which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth. (Pottery Barn)
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin, which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth.
Rough textures or infrequent washing can also irritate sensitive skin and worsen breakouts.
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“Regularly wash your blankets, especially those made from synthetic or fluffy materials, to remove built-up oils and dirt,” Taurua advised.
She recommended breathable materials like cotton or linen, as well as hypoallergenic options for anyone prone to irritation.
Good set of sheets, $49.99, Amazon.com
Much like scarves, natural fibers are the way to go for your linens to avoid irritation. (iStock)
Cold weather makes lingering in bed especially tempting, but lying on unwashed bedding can worsen acne.
Pillowcases and sheets quickly collect oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, which transfer directly onto the face.
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“Washing bedding frequently is important,” Taurua said. “You should aim to change and wash your pillowcases every two to three days and your sheets at least once a week.”
Heated blanket, $33.99, Walmart.com
Heated blankets are a great way to stay warm during the winter. (Walmart)
When using a heated blanket, start with the lowest heat setting and limit use, said Taurua.
“Once you’re warm, switch to a regular blanket,” she advised.
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She also said it’s best to avoid direct contact for long periods to reduce irritation.
Hot water bottle, $12.99, Amazon.com
A traditional winter staple, hot water bottles offer quick comfort — but they come with risks similar to heated blankets, including burns, scalding and long-term heat-related skin damage.
Hot water bottles should never be filled with boiling water, experts advise. (Amazon)
“Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water,” Taurua said.
“Only use hot, not boiling, water, and fill it to a maximum of two-thirds.”
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She recommended wrapping the bottle in a towel or cover to avoid direct skin contact and limiting use to around 20 minutes.
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