Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses that affect the skin and mucosal membranes. It’s recognized as the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease (STD) globally, with nearly all sexually active individuals expected to encounter it at some point in their lives, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While discussions surrounding HPV often revolve around women’s health and cervical cancer risk, a recent study published in The Lancet Global Health reveals that over one-third of men aged 15 and older are infected with at least one type of HPV. One in five men carries one or more “high-risk” HPV strains. This statistic underscores the broader impact of HPV on public health.
Dr. Christine Meyer, a practicing physician and founder of CMMD and Associates medical practice, emphasizes that HPV affects both men and women and has significant public health implications.
HPV Transmission and Health Impact
HPV comprises over 200 types, some of which can be sexually transmitted, and individuals may become infected with multiple strains simultaneously. These viruses are categorized as low-risk and high-risk based on their potential to cause health issues. Low-risk HPV strains typically do not lead to disease, while high-risk strains can contribute to various cancers.
HPV transmission primarily occurs through direct skin-to-skin contact. Once it enters the body through breaks in the skin or mucosal membranes, it can infect cells and evade the immune system, leading to cell damage and potential cancer development.
Historical Context: HPV and Cervical Cancer
The link between HPV and cervical cancer is well-established today. It traces back to the 1970s when German virologist Harald zur Hausen proposed that HPV might play a role in causing cervical cancer. Extensive research, including the analysis of HPV strains and patient biopsies, led zur Hausen to identify HPV16 and HPV18 as significant contributors to cervical cancer. This discovery earned him a share of the 2008 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
The World Health Organization reports that over 95% of cervical cancer cases are attributed to HPV infection, with HPV16 and HPV18 present in approximately 70% of cancer biopsies worldwide. This groundbreaking work paved the way for the development of the first HPV cervical cancer vaccine, approved for human use in 2006.
HPV Vaccines and Global Impact
HPV vaccines, exemplifying preventative vaccines, aim to prevent HPV infection rather than treat it. These vaccines stimulate the production of neutralizing antibodies against HPV through virus-like particles.
While HPV’s association with cervical cancer in women has received significant research attention, its link to other types of cancer has also been established. These include oropharyngeal cancer, anal cancer, penile cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer. In 2018, an estimated 69,400 male cancer cases were linked to HPV infections, according to The International Agency for Research on Cancer.
However, much of the research on HPV prevalence in men has been limited to high-income countries or high-risk populations, such as men who have sex with men or those with HIV, leaving gaps in our understanding of the global burden of HPV and transmission risks. The recent Lancet Global Health study aimed to address this gap.
Study Findings and Implications
The study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of publications from 1995 to 2022 on the prevalence of genital HPV infection in males. The data indicates that approximately 31% of men are infected with one strain of HPV, and 21% carry high-risk strains. Young adults, particularly those aged 25-29, showed higher prevalence rates.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Laia Bruni Coccoz, emphasizes that these findings emphasize the need for comprehensive HPV prevention strategies involving both genders. HPV is not solely a women’s health issue; it’s a broader public health concern associated with various cancers in both men and women.
Prevention and early detection are crucial in managing HPV. Safe sex practices, including condom use, are effective ways to reduce the risk of infection. Regular sexual health check-ups are recommended, particularly for those with multiple or new partners. Additionally, HPV vaccines are available for both males and females and are most effective when administered before sexual activity begins.
While the Lancet Global Health study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to enhance our understanding of HPV’s global impact and transmission patterns. However, the findings underscore the urgency of addressing HPV as a public health concern that affects both men and women.
