Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common group of viruses. It affects skin and moist membranes throughout the body. While often discussed in the context of female health, HPV is a widespread infection that equally impacts males. This virus can lead to significant health concerns for men, including various cancers and other conditions.
Understanding HPV in Males
HPV transmits primarily through skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as general intimate skin contact. The virus can spread even when an infected person has no visible symptoms.
HPV infection is highly prevalent among males globally. Studies indicate that almost one in three men over 15 are infected with at least one genital HPV type. In the United States, approximately 45% of males have genital HPV, with 25% carrying a high-risk type. In some regions, the overall HPV prevalence in asymptomatic males can be as high as 65.2%.
Many HPV infections in males are asymptomatic. In most cases, the immune system naturally clears the virus within two years. However, some infections can persist, potentially leading to health problems.
Health Risks Associated with HPV in Males
HPV can lead to several health issues in males, ranging from benign growths to certain cancers. High-risk HPV types, such as HPV16 and HPV18, are responsible for most HPV-related cancers.
Genital warts are a common manifestation of HPV infection in males. Caused by low-risk HPV types like HPV6 and HPV11, these warts appear as bumps that can be flat, raised, or cauliflower-shaped. They typically occur on the penis, scrotum, groin, thighs, or around the anal area. Though benign, they can be bothersome and may require treatment.
Anal cancer is another serious risk associated with certain high-risk HPV types, primarily HPV16. Symptoms can include bleeding, pain, itching, or discharge in the anal area, and sometimes swollen lymph nodes. This cancer is more common in men who have sex with men (MSM) and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV.
Penile cancer, though rare, is also linked to HPV infection. Approximately 50% of penile cancers are associated with HPV, with HPV16 being the most common type. This cancer affects the penis and often requires surgery.
Oropharyngeal cancer, affecting the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue, has an increasing incidence in males and is strongly associated with high-risk HPV, particularly HPV16. Oral sex is believed to contribute to its transmission. Symptoms can include persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, or a lump in the neck. This cancer is more prevalent in men than in women.
Prevention and Early Detection for Males
Vaccination is a primary strategy for protection against HPV. The HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for adolescents, typically at ages 11 or 12, but can be given as early as age 9.
For those not vaccinated earlier, a “catch-up” vaccination is recommended for males through age 26. Adults aged 27 through 45 may also consider vaccination after discussing it with their healthcare provider. The vaccine protects against HPV types most commonly linked to cancers and genital warts.
While not entirely preventative, practicing safer sex can help reduce HPV transmission. Consistent and correct condom use during sexual activity lowers the risk of spreading HPV, although it does not eliminate it completely. This is because HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom. Limiting the number of sexual partners also decreases the likelihood of exposure to the virus.
Unlike females who have routine Pap tests for cervical cancer screening, there is no standardized HPV screening test for males to detect HPV presence or related cellular changes before symptoms appear. However, awareness of potential symptoms and regular medical check-ups are important for early detection. For high-risk groups, such as men who have sex with men or those with compromised immune systems, anal Pap tests may be recommended to screen for anal cancer precursors.
Managing HPV in Males
If a male is diagnosed with an HPV-related condition, various management and treatment options are available. For genital warts, common treatments include topical medications applied directly to the warts, cryotherapy (freezing the warts), or surgical removal. While these treatments can remove visible warts, they do not eliminate the HPV infection itself, and warts can recur.
Precancerous lesions, such as anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN), can be monitored or treated to prevent progression to cancer. Treatment options for AIN include topical therapies like imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil, and ablative methods such as electrocautery or laser therapy. Treatment choice depends on the lesion’s size, location, and severity.
For HPV-related cancers, treatment typically follows standard cancer protocols. This may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. Early diagnosis is important for more effective treatment outcomes. While there is no cure for HPV infection itself, managing its manifestations is crucial for maintaining health.