Abstract
BackgroundA recent qualitative study in Denmark showed that genital warts (GWs) can considerably lower the quality of life of heterosexual patients. In this follow-up study, we interviewed men having sex with men (MSM) suffering from GWs to obtain an in-depth understanding of their perception of GWs and determine the extent to which minority (homosexual) cultural issues affect these patients' experiences. Qualitative interviews with six MSM were performed using a semi-structured interview guide. Questions were formulated on the basis of the earlier qualitative study in heterosexual patients with GWs along with a literature review. Data were analysed using a medical anthropological approach.FindingsMany MSM worried about being stigmatised and excluded from the small homosexual 'scene', their key social group, thereby lowering their chances of finding sex and love. Most participants had suffered from GWs for several years which added to the negative psycho-sexual and social effects of the disease. Participants' fears of developing anal cancer were similar to those expressed about cervical cancer by females with GWs.ConclusionsAno-genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is common and has a serious psychological and sexual impact among MSM. However, they do not benefit to the same extent as heterosexual men from the herd immunity effect of HPV vaccination of girls. The pathological profile and concerns specific to MSM should be addressed when communicating with these patients, and should be taken into account when considering HPV vaccination of boys.
Highlights
Introduction of the participantIntroductory Participant’s reaction to the question GWs diagnosisTransitional questionPerception of illnessKey questions Effects of GWs on quality of life (QoL)Closing questionsGWs, genital warts QuestionWhat is your name, age and how long have you been suffering from GWs?1
The pathological profile and concerns specific to men having sex with men (MSM) should be addressed when communicating with these patients, and should be taken into account when considering human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination of boys
MSM felt frustrated throughout the course of treatment and had a strong need for information about HPV infections and treatment options - including the effects of the HPV vaccine which two participants had already received with the hope of increasing the efficacy of their GW treatment
Summary
Introduction of the participantIntroductory Participant’s reaction to the question GWs diagnosisTransitional questionPerception of illnessKey questions Effects of GWs on QoLClosing questionsGWs, genital warts QuestionWhat is your name, age and how long have you been suffering from GWs?1. A recent qualitative study in Denmark showed that genital warts (GWs) can considerably lower the quality of life of heterosexual patients. In this follow-up study, we interviewed men having sex with men (MSM) suffering from GWs to obtain an in-depth understanding of their perception of GWs and determine the extent to which minority (homosexual) cultural issues affect these patients’ experiences. The patients’ selfimage as well as their social lives were affected by the stigmatisation caused by the disease Patients found it difficult to detach themselves from their GWs because of the repeated treatments, the social manoeuvres required to conceal the disease and the negative effects on their love and sex lives, in particular [1]. One study focused on men having sex with men (MSM) and their knowledge of HPV [4]
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