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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
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The main cause of KS is a virus called human herpes virus 8 (HHV8). Most people who have this virus never get KS. But people with a weakened immune system who have the virus are more likely to develop KS.
Our immune system is made up of tissues and organs that work together to protect us against infections. Different conditions can cause a weakened immune system. The one most commonly linked with KS is HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), the virus that causes AIDS.
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