HIV infection increases cancer risk 2018 hiv virus

Almost "Lindenstraße" star Georg Uecker (55) took his own life. Reason for his emotional deep: a terrible diagnosis in the 1990s. The actor was HIV positive AND had cancer!

Today, scientists know that this combination is not uncommon. Because an HIV infection increases the risk of getting cancer.

But why is that? And how can the cancer risk be reduced?

BILD asked Hans Georg Kräusslich, Professor of Virology at Heidelberg University Hospital.

Why does HIV infection increase the risk of cancer?

Professor Kräusslich: "In the case of HIV infection, HI viruses channel their genetic material into certain immune cells. As a result, the cells are destroyed and can no longer fight effectively against pathogens. An HIV infection weakens the entire immune system and makes the body more susceptible to all sorts of diseases. Among other things for certain cancers. "

BECAUSE some cancers are triggered by viruses.

So, for example:

• the hepatitis B virus increases the risk of liver cancer,
• human papilloma
viruses cause cervical cancer, • the Merkel cell polyoma virus causes skin cancer.

How can an HIV-infected person reduce their risk?

Professor Kräusslich: "Nowadays HIV-infected patients are treated with a combination therapy consisting of different active substances. These drugs help to suppress the production of viruses. Thus, the body is largely protected from the consequences of HIV infection and the immune system is not so badly damaged. The result: the immune system can fight other viruses and diseases better. Including those who cause cancer. "

Because of the medication, patients therefore have the opportunity to lead an almost normal life.