HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. HPV is a common, highly contagious virus type passed from person to person via intimate skin-to-skin sexual contact and can infect both men and women. There are over 200 different strains of human papillomavirus. Some types classified as “low-risk” can cause genital warts, while other types classified as “high-risk” can cause cancer.
Because it can cause cervical cancer, HPV gets a lot of attention in women’s health. But understanding HPV is important in men’s health too. Not only can HPV cause certain types of cancers in men, but studies have found that men are more likely to be infected with HPV than women.
9 Things Men Need to Know About HPV
1. HPV is Common – According to the CDC, human papillomavirus is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S., impacting both men and women. It’s estimated that 79 million Americans are infected with HPV.
2. Symptoms of HPV – The most common symptom of HPV is genital warts. But in most cases, there are no HPV symptoms in men, and though infected, the virus will clear on its own. However, in cases where there are no visible symptoms, HPV in men can lead to cancers of the penis, anus, or throat.
3. HPV can cause Genital Warts – The most common clinical manifestation of HPV in men is genital warts. Warts may be small, rough lumps that are raised, flat, or cauliflower-shaped and may be itchy, painful, and may bleed. Genital warts typically appear on the penis, scrotum, or anal region, but can also occur around the lips or mouth.
4. HPV can cause Cancer in Men – The ASHA estimates that 4 out of every 10 cases of cancer caused by HPV occur in men. HPV can cause various types of cancer in men, including those that affect the tonsils, the tongue, the anus, and the penis. While anil and penile cancers are rare, treatments can be pretty severe. Cancers involving the throat (oropharyngeal cancer) are the most common HPV related cancers found in men.
5. Treatments for HPV – There are no specific treatments for human papillomavirus itself. But there are treatments for the health issues caused by the virus, such as genital warts and cancers that are found early.
6. No HPV Test – Currently, there isn’t an approved screening test for HPV in men. Your doctor can examine you for lesions or warts and screen you for various types of cancers associated with HPV.
7. HPV is highly contagious – Since there are often no symptoms, you may not be aware that you have the virus and can easily infect your partner with HPV. Even without penetration, people can contract HPV through skin-to-skin sexual contact below the waist with fingers, mouths, or other body parts.
8. Condoms don’t prevent HPV – Using condoms every time you have sex is an effective way to reduce your risk for many types of sexually transmitted infections, including HPV. However, while condoms reduce your risk, they don’t prevent HPV infection.
9. How do you prevent HPV? Get vaccinated! The HPV vaccine is safe and can protect against both low-risk and high-risk types of HPV. For boys, the CDC recommends receiving the HPV vaccine at 11-12 years of age, preferably before they become sexually active. The HPV vaccine is recommended for all males and females ages 9-26 and can prevent over 90% of HPV related cancers. People aged 27-45 should talk to their family doctor about the benefits of getting the HPV vaccine, regardless of their gender or relationship status.
It’s possible to have the human papillomavirus for years without symptoms. Many men aren’t aware of HPV infection, or they think it’s only a problem for women, but HPV can cause cancer in men too, so it’s essential for men and boys to be vaccinated and to watch for any signs of infection.
Talk to your Doctor
If you have concerns about you or your son’s risk of HPV infection and would like to speak with one of our caring medical professionals, contact River Bend Medical Associates. As part of your medical team, we are here to provide you with the best care in all aspects of your healthcare needs. For more information on our medical practice, or to make an appointment, contact River Bend Medical Associates or call 916-392-4000.