triplew00t

Dr. Rick,

How does anal sex increase chances of anal cancer. I have not heard of this before. I always thought an actual cancer causing agent had to be present to increase risks in contracting cancer (such as tobacco, pesticides, etc). How does this process work without a such an agent.

Nero

nermal

I've read in real literature, not the homophobic crap, that homosexuals are vastly more likely to have just about any given STD than heterosexuals. This is partially due (I think; I'm no doctor nor epidemiologist) to the greater incidence of anal sex among homosexuals coupled with the much greater number of sexual partners a homosexual is likely to have.
The second factor is, I think, partially do to the stigma attached to homosexuality. As an outcast class, there is greater impetus for "outrageous" lifestyles. If monogomy and marriage were actively encouraged, I think the second factor would play a smaller role over time.
This is where the Right Wing Moralists are showing their true colors. By denying homosexuals the legitimacy of mainstream acceptance, they are in part responsible for the lude behavior they so adamently oppose.

Ed

Dr Rick

Viruses are the agent working here. Human papillomaviriae, which are sexually transmitted and cause genital warts, are strongly associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. When acquired via anal intercourse, they increase the risk of anal cancer, as well.

triplew00t

Ah, thanks Dr. Rick. Does this same virus cause any increased cancer risk when contracted on the penis, or is it only cervical and anal?

Nero

Dr Rick

Penile papillomaviriae infections are associated with an increased risk of penile cancers. The bug is a really nasty one; even oral acquisition of the virus is associated with an increased risk of cancer of the mouth and throat.

Want to decrease the risk? Be safe, then; abstinence and monogamy are the best defenses against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms may also mitigate the risks.

Johnny Mayberry

Remember, folks, that area is especially able to absorb almost anything, which is why doctors often will administer drugs in suppository form when oral ingestion is problematic.