The Growing Demand for Private STD Testing
The Reality About HPV in Men: What You Need to Know
HPV Is Not Only a Women's Health Issue
The incorrect assumption that HPV is a female problem stems from the way it's framed in public health messages. Since HPV is the major cause of cervical cancer, much of the focus has been placed on vaccinating young women. But HPV is an equal-opportunity virus—it's spread by skin-to-skin contact, and many of the cancers and diseases it's associated with affect men as well.
How Common is HPV in Men?
HPV is so common that a combined total of 80% of sexually active men and women will contract it at some point in their lifetime. The CDC estimates that almost 45% of men between the ages of 18 and 59 are infected with one or more types of HPV.
Compared to women, who receive frequent Pap smears to test for abnormalities related to HPV, men do not have standard screening for HPV. So the majority of men never even find out that they have it—until it brings on severe health issues.
The Hidden Health Dangers of HPV in Men
The majority of HPV types are harmless and clear up on their own. High-risk types (such as HPV-16 and HPV-18), however, can cause cancer in men. The most common HPV-related cancers in men are:
- Oropharyngeal Cancer (Throat Cancer): One of the fastest-growing cancers in men, HPV-related throat cancer has increased dramatically in recent times. It's estimated that 70% of oropharyngeal cancers are caused by HPV.
- Genital Warts:Over 90% of genital warts are due to HPV, and although non-cancerous, they can be painful, embarrassing, and difficult to treat.
- Penile Cancer: Though rare, penile cancer is due to HPV more than any other reason, and may require drastic treatment like partial or full amputation of the penis in severe cases.
- Anal Cancer: MSM are at significantly higher risk of anal cancer due to HPV.
Why Men Need the HPV Vaccine
Vaccination: The Best Protection Against HPV and Cancer
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) is a safe, highly effective way to prevent infection with the most lethal forms of HPV. It protects against:
- HPV-16 and HPV-18 (the major cancer-causing types)
- HPV-6 and HPV-11 (which cause 90% of genital warts)
- Other high-risk types that cause other cancers
When Should Men Get the HPV Vaccine?
The CDC recommends that:
Boys between 11 and 12 should be vaccinated (prior to possible exposure).
Men through age 26 may receive the vaccine if they had previously missed it.
Men 27-45 should speak with their physician—although it won't be as effective, it may still be of some protection, particularly if they have had very little exposure to HPV types.
Physicians do not frequently discuss the HPV vaccine with male patients, and therefore many men don't realize they need to get vaccinated to begin with.
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Is It Worth Getting the HPV Vaccine as an Adult?
Another myth is that if you're older or already sexually active, there's no point in getting vaccinated. The reality? It's never too late.
Even if you've already been infected with some strains of HPV, the vaccine can still protect you against others. In addition, natural infection with HPV doesn't provide lifelong immunity, but the vaccine provides long-term protection against subsequent infection.
Real Stories: The Life-Saving Power of the HPV Vaccine
A Survivor's Warning
James, a 39-year-old man, never thought that a sore throat would kill him. But when his persistent hoarseness turned out to be stage III throat cancer caused by HPV, he was stunned.
"I didn't even know men got cancers from HPV," he recalls. "If I had known about the vaccine, I would have gotten it in a heartbeat."
After intense chemotherapy and radiation, James is cancer-free today—but the experience left him with permanent speech and swallowing difficulties.
"If I could turn back the clock, I'd tell my younger self to get the damn shot."
The Impact of HPV-Related Penile Cancer
In a different case, a 45-year-old British father was diagnosed with penile cancer caused by HPV after reporting unusual symptoms. After undergoing some treatments, he even had to undergo a partial penectomy—a life-altering surgery that affected both his self-image and interpersonal relationships.
"The shame of HPV kept me from ever thinking about it," he admitted. "If only I had gotten vaccinated when I was young."
How At-Home STD Testing Can Help
Although there is no routine HPV test for men, home STD test kits can identify related infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, which often accompany HPV.
For sexually active men, routine STD testing is important—especially for men in high-risk groups (men who have sex with men). Early detection of STDs can prevent complications and improve overall health.
At-home STD testing kits offer a comfortable, discreet way of staying in control of your health without the stress of clinic visits.
FAQs
1. Can men get HPV?
Yes. Men and women are just as likely to get HPV. Actually, a study found that about 45% of men between the ages of 18 and 59 have HPV. Most men don't ever show symptoms but may transmit the disease to partners.
2. If a man does get HPV?
HPV may cause:
- Cancer of the throat (oropharyngeal cancer)
- Penile cancer
- Anal cancer (especially among men who have sex with other men)
- Genital warts (which may be persistent and hard to get rid of)
Most HPV infections resolve spontaneously, but high-risk types can cause life-threatening cancers years later.
3. Is the HPV vaccine safe for men?
Yes. The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) has been thoroughly tested and is safe and effective. Side effects are usually mild and may include:
- Soreness at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Fatigue or headaches
Severe side effects are extremely uncommon, and the benefits of the vaccination far outweigh any potential risks.
4. At what age should men be vaccinated against HPV?
Ideal timing for vaccination is between the ages of 11 and 12, before they might have been exposed to HPV. Men up to age 26 are also benefited, and men 27-45 if they are not exposed to all types of HPV.
5. If I have already been infected with HPV, should I get vaccinated?
Yes! The vaccine won't cure existing infections, but it can keep you from getting infected with other high-risk HPV types you've not yet been exposed to.
Since natural HPV infection isn't a lifelong immunity, the vaccine can protect you from reinfection in the future.
6. How is HPV spread?
HPV is spread by:
- Skin-to-skin sexual contact (vaginal, anal, and oral sex)
- Close genital contact (even without sex)
- Shared devices like sex toys
- Condoms reduce risk but do not totally prevent infection with HPV because it can infect exposed skin.
7. Does HPV cause infertility in men?
HPV does not make people infertile, but it can cause issues that interfere with reproductive well-being, including:
- Chronic infection that gets worse over time by damaging the quality of the sperm
- Treatment of cancer (radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery) that reduces fertility
8. Why are doctors not talking as much about the HPV vaccine in men as they do in women?
There is still lingering misunderstanding that HPV is a women's health concern. Since women are given regular Pap smears to detect cervical abnormalities linked with HPV, public health communications have long emphasized female vaccination.
Still, with more cancers caused by HPV in men, physicians are increasingly prescribing the vaccine to males as well.
9. How much does the HPV vaccine for men cost?
Location and insurance depend on it, but generally:
- In the U.S.: $200–$250 per dose (most insurance pays for it for eligible ages)
- Globally: Prices vary, but most countries have free or subsidized immunization programs
If cost is a concern, call local health departments, clinics, or vaccine programs.
10. Where can I get the HPV vaccine?
Men get the HPV vaccine at:
- Doctor's offices
- Pharmacies
- Public health clinics
- College health centers
Catch-up vaccination programs are available in most countries for young adults who were not vaccinated as teens.
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Take Control of Your Health
For much too long, HPV has been portrayed as a women's health emergency, and men have remained blissfully unaware of their own peril. The truth is, HPV can result in serious cancers and health complications in men, and the key to prevention lies in vaccination and routine STD testing.
Three Steps Every Man Needs to Take Today
- Talk with your doctor about receiving the HPV vaccine. Even if you are older, it may still protect you.
- Stay informed and share this with others. Share with friends, family, and partners risks of HPV for men.
- Use home STD testing kits to screen for STDs and detect infections early.
HPV can be prevented—if you take action. Take control of your health today!
References
1.- HPV and Men: CDC Fact Sheet
2.- 5 Reasons Boys and Young Men Need the HPV Vaccine
3.- One in Three Men Worldwide Infected with Genital HPV
4.- HPV Virus in Men
