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Participants completed a structured web-based survey and provided biological samples. Chlamydia and HPV diagnoses were only performed in 98 and participants, respectively. Prevalence of HIV was HPV genotypes 16, 6, and 11 were the most frequently found; Rates of other sexually transmitted infections STI , such as syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and Human papilloma virus HPV are also high and increasing among MSM [4] β [7] , something worrisome given the association of these STIs with other serious illnesses [1] , [7] β [11].
For example, HPV infection has been shown to be high among MSM in several studies [7] , [12] β [14] and has been associated with a variety of cancers in men, including anal, penile and oral cancers. The incidence of anal and oral cancers related to HPV is increasing in the general population and is growing even faster among individuals who are immunocompromised because of HIV infection [15] β [17].
Recently, HPV vaccination for adolescent women has been introduced in several countries including Argentina with the aim of reducing the incidence of cervical cancer [18]. However, vaccination has not been implemented for adolescent boys. While previous studies in Argentina have provided a general estimate of the prevalence and incidence of HIV and other STIs among MSM, they were conducted using convenience samples recruited through a gay-identified organization, which consisted mostly of highly educated, gay-identified MSM.
However, given the diversity in sexual identities, partners, and behaviors among MSM, establishing accurate estimates of HIV and STI prevalence and incidence requires accessing hidden populations of MSM who might not be reached through convenience sampling.
