2023-08-19 03:01:00
One Third of Men Worldwide Infected with Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Study Finds
A new study published in the journal The Lancet has revealed that nearly a third (31 percent) of all men worldwide are infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV), with about one in five men having one or more high-risk HPV types known to cause cancer. The research highlights a lack of focus on studying HPV in men, as previous research has primarily focused on its spread in women.
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally, according to the RKI. The majority of sexually active individuals will become infected with the virus at least once, usually shortly after engaging in sexual activity. HPV infection can result in several types of HPV, which are known to cause inflammation and changes in the skin.
The virus is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected skin or mucous membranes. Once the virus enters the body through small cracks or injuries in the skin or mucous membranes, it begins to multiply. In most cases, HPV infection goes unnoticed as it often presents no symptoms and resolves on its own. However, certain strains of HPV can lead to the development of skin warts, called papillomas, on the face, hands, or feet.
The study identified 12 types of HPV that are proven to be carcinogenic. The most common consequence of HPV infection is the development of cervical cancer, which can occur years or even decades after the initial infection. However, tissue changes caused by HPV can also lead to tumors in other parts of the body, including the labia, vaginal entrance, vagina, anus, mouth, and throat.
While condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, they do not offer complete protection as they do not cover all potentially affected skin areas in the genital area. The most reliable method of protection is the HPV vaccination, which provides immunity against specific virus variants within the HPV group. Some vaccines also protect against HPV types that cause genital warts.
Traditionally, HPV vaccination strategies have mainly targeted girls due to the association between HPV and cervical cancer. However, the findings of this study suggest that vaccinating both sexes is essential to effectively combat the spread of the virus. Tissue changes caused by HPV can occur in men’s anal, mouth, and throat areas, and there is a possibility of developing tumors in the penis. In 2018 alone, HPV was estimated to cause approximately 69,000 male cancer cases globally, and there are suspicions of a link between HPV and prostate cancer.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control emphasizes the need for vaccinating both sexes in their report on the European vaccination strategy against HPV. The current focus on vaccinating girls is deemed insufficient to adequately protect men, including non-homosexual men. The report concludes that vaccinating both sexes would be more effective in containing the spread of HPV in the community.
In light of these findings, experts urge for increased awareness and investment in HPV research for men, as well as equal access to vaccination for both sexes.]
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