HPV (human papillomavirus) often gets a lot of attention as a women’s health issue because it’s the main cause of cervical cancer, which is what doctors are screening for during Pap tests. However, it’s a mistake to assume HPV only impacts women—it can pose serious health risks for men too.
Studies have shown that men are actually more likely to be infected with HPV than women and are also more prone to contracting high-risk strains of the virus. HPV is highly common in both sexes and spreads through close physical contact, including sexual activity. Often, people don’t even realize they’re infected because it usually doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to papillomas, which are wart-like growths that may appear on the genitals, skin, or throat. Although papillomas themselves are not cancerous, HPV can cause different types of cancer in men.
### Common Myths About HPV in Men
**Myth: HPV only causes health issues in women.**
**Reality:** HPV can lead to cancer in both men and women. In men, it can cause cancers of the throat (oropharyngeal cancer), tonsils, base of the tongue, anus, and penis. While penile and anal cancers are less common, throat cancer is the most frequent type of HPV-related cancer in men. If you notice unusual growths in your neck, mouth, throat, or penis, it’s important to consult a doctor.
**Myth: Condoms completely prevent HPV.**
**Reality:** While condoms lower the risk of HPV infection during sexual contact, they don’t offer full protection. HPV can still spread through areas of skin not covered by a condom. For oral sex, additional protection like a dental dam or a female condom is necessary.
**Myth: HPV infections in men aren’t a big deal.**
**Reality:** HPV can result in serious health problems for men, including cancer. Treating cancer caused by HPV might involve surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. For throat cancer, surgery can make it difficult to eat or speak, potentially leading to social isolation. In cases of penile cancer, treatment might require partial or total removal of the penis, which can affect urination and sexual health. While severe cases are rare, these outcomes highlight the importance of prevention.
**Myth: Men can be screened for HPV.**
**Reality:** Currently, there isn’t an effective HPV screening test for men unless visible growths develop. Doctors test for HPV if there’s a papilloma, tumor, or suspicious growth, but there’s no reliable way to screen for the virus itself without symptoms.
**Myth: Men can’t pass HPV to women.**
**Reality:** Men can transmit HPV to women through intimate skin-to-skin contact, genital warts, or semen during vaginal sex. HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer in women, underlining the importance of prevention for both genders.
**Myth: Boys don’t need the HPV vaccine.**
**Reality:** Vaccinating boys against HPV can protect them from throat cancer, which is one of the fastest-growing head and neck cancers. The vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 9 to 26, with the ideal age being 11 or 12. Before age 15, only two doses are needed, but three doses are required if vaccinations begin after age 15. Adults aged 27 to 45 should consult their doctor about the potential benefits of the vaccine.
Parents might hesitate to vaccinate their sons, especially if they think their child isn’t sexually active. However, sexual behaviors can change over time, and the risk of HPV increases with more sexual partners. Public health experts often say that when it comes to sexually transmitted infections, you’re also exposed to everyone your partner has ever been with.
### The Takeaway
Many men aren’t aware of the risks HPV poses to their own health because it’s often thought of as a women’s issue. However, HPV can lead to severe consequences, including cancer, in men. Getting vaccinated and staying vigilant for symptoms are the best steps toward protection. If you want to learn more about reducing your risk of sexually transmitted infections, reach out to a healthcare professional.