Researchers looked at how immune checkpoint inhibitors work for people living with HIV who also have cancer. They compared the results of these patients to people living without HIV who were treated with the same type of medication. The study included 935 people in total to look at survival rates and how well the treatment controlled the disease.
The results showed no significant differences in overall survival or progression-free survival between people with HIV and those without HIV. Additionally, the rates for objective response and disease control were 36% and 64% respectively. Safety data also showed no significant differences in serious adverse events between the two groups.
It is important to note that evidence is still limited because people living with HIV are often excluded from many clinical trials. While this study suggests the treatment is comparable for both groups, the findings are based on a meta-analysis of existing data. Patients should talk to their doctors to understand how these results apply to their specific health needs.
