Human Papillomavirus
by Steven Swenson, Joseph Setyon, and Sal Salerno
by Steven Swenson, Joseph Setyon, and Sal Salerno
HPV in Men
While much of the concern about human papillomavirus is centered on women due to the fact it may cause cervical cancer, men may also develop health problems resulting from this virus
Although rare, HPV in men increases the risk of contracting genital cancers and may cause genital warts, just as in women
It is estimated that over 50% of men who are sexually active will develop HPV in their lifetime
However, the virus typically passes on its own, requiring little medical attention and treatment
Some of the 30 different types of HPV associated with genital cancer can lead to cancer of the anus or penis in men, both of which are extremely rare
Although rare, HPV in men increases the risk of contracting genital cancers and may cause genital warts, just as in women
It is estimated that over 50% of men who are sexually active will develop HPV in their lifetime
However, the virus typically passes on its own, requiring little medical attention and treatment
Some of the 30 different types of HPV associated with genital cancer can lead to cancer of the anus or penis in men, both of which are extremely rare
The high risk strains of HPV that are carcinogens usually show little to no symptoms in both men and/or women
Unfortunately, there is no test to determine if high risk strains of HPV are present, although anal Pap tests may reveal cell abnormalities
However, genital warts are the first symptom of the lower risk strains
The HPV vaccine Guardisil that prevents cervical cancer in women was approved for men in 2009
Unfortunately, there is no test to determine if high risk strains of HPV are present, although anal Pap tests may reveal cell abnormalities
However, genital warts are the first symptom of the lower risk strains
The HPV vaccine Guardisil that prevents cervical cancer in women was approved for men in 2009
The vaccine protects against two strains of HPV, 6 and 11, and has been approved for the prevention of anal cancer
Page Created by Steven Swenson
