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Increasing awareness and encouraging HPV vaccination for men is a critical step toward achieving better public health outcomes for everyone
Cervical cancer ranks as the second most frequent cancer among women in India and the second most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age. (PTI)
Understanding HPV and Its Risks for Men: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide, yet it is often associated primarily with cervical cancer in women. However, HPV poses significant health risks to men as well. Despite this, vaccination efforts have historically focused on women, leading to a lack of awareness about the benefits of HPV vaccination for men. Ensuring that men are vaccinated against HPV is not only crucial for their health but also plays a significant role in reducing the overall spread of the virus.
HPV is not a single virus but a group of over 200 related viruses, some of which can cause serious health problems. Many HPV infections clear on their own without causing harm, but certain high-risk strains can lead to genital warts and various types of cancer. Among men, HPV is the leading cause of penile cancer and a major contributor to anal cancer, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or those who have sex with other men. Additionally, HPV is responsible for cancers of the throat, tonsils, and tongue in both men and women.
Genital warts caused by HPV can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally distressing. While these warts may not be life-threatening, they can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. More alarmingly, some HPV-related cancers may not show symptoms until they are in advanced stages, making prevention through vaccination even more critical.
The Role of Men in HPV Transmission
Even if a man does not develop cancer or warts from an HPV infection, he can still carry and transmit the virus to his sexual partners. Unvaccinated men contribute to the ongoing spread of HPV, putting their partners at risk of developing HPV-related cancers and other complications. By getting vaccinated, men can protect not only themselves but also their partners, reducing the overall prevalence of the virus in the population.
Dr. Monika Jani, gynaecologist and obstetrician at Bhailal Amin General Hospital in Vadodara, emphasizes, “Although HPV is often linked to cervical cancer, its impact on men should not be overlooked. Men face serious health risks from HPV, including penile, anal, and throat cancers, as well as genital warts. Furthermore, unvaccinated men contribute to the continued spread of HPV, endangering their partners. The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect men from these health risks while also helping to reduce the overall burden of HPV-related diseases.”
Effectiveness of the HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections from the most dangerous strains of the virus. It protects against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause the majority of HPV-related cancers, as well as types 6 and 11, which are responsible for most cases of genital warts. The vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing these conditions, making it a crucial tool in public health efforts.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that both boys and girls receive the HPV vaccine at the age of 11 or 12. The vaccine is most effective when administered before an individual becomes sexually active, as it provides protection before potential exposure to the virus. However, older teens and adults who have not been vaccinated can still benefit from receiving the vaccine.
The Public Health and Pharmaceutical Perspective
From a pharmaceutical standpoint, expanding HPV vaccination programs to include men presents both a crucial public health opportunity and a market growth potential. Dr. Aravind Badiger, Technical Director at BDR Pharmaceuticals, explains, “Despite the common misconception that HPV primarily affects women, the virus poses a significant risk to men as well. HPV is a leading cause of oropharyngeal, anal, and penile cancers, with oropharyngeal cancer among men rising at an alarming rate in recent years. Additionally, men act as carriers, facilitating transmission and increasing infection risks for their partners. Yet, male vaccination rates remain low, limiting the overall effectiveness of HPV prevention efforts.”
Global regulatory agencies continue to push for gender-neutral immunization policies, reinforcing the need for broader coverage to curb transmission and enhance disease prevention. The pharmaceutical industry plays a vital role in overcoming access barriers by investing in awareness campaigns, optimizing distribution networks, and fortifying supply chains to improve vaccine uptake.
Early vaccination, particularly before exposure to the virus, remains the most effective strategy for long-term protection. With HPV-related cancer cases on the rise worldwide, pharmaceutical companies must spearhead initiatives in innovation, regulatory partnerships, and strategic market expansion to ensure widespread vaccine accessibility. A well-structured immunization approach will not only strengthen cancer prevention efforts but also contribute to long-term healthcare sustainability.
Although HPV is often linked to cervical cancer, its impact on men should not be underestimated. Men face serious health risks from HPV, including penile, anal, and throat cancers, as well as genital warts. Furthermore, unvaccinated men contribute to the continued spread of HPV, putting their partners at risk. The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect men from these health risks while also helping to reduce the overall burden of HPV-related diseases.
Increasing awareness and encouraging HPV vaccination for men is a critical step toward achieving better public health outcomes for everyone. As regulatory bodies, healthcare professionals, and the pharmaceutical industry work together to promote widespread vaccination, we move closer to a future where HPV-related diseases become far less common, protecting individuals and communities alike.
