While most health narratives around Human Papillomavirus (HPV) focus on women, a recent surge in research points to a more alarming trend: HPV is not only more prevalent in men but is also a primary driver behind increasing cases of throat, tongue, and other cancers. A recent survey conducted by The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) underscores a critical gap in public awareness and knowledge regarding the prevalence of HPV among men and its potential consequences.
Survey Highlights Stark Misconceptions
The findings from the survey reveal a stark reality: a significant portion of the population holds misconceptions about HPV, particularly its impact on men. Electra Paskett, PhD, a leading cancer control researcher at OSUCCC – James, shared that nearly half of the respondents were unaware of the link between HPV and cancers other than cervical cancer. This includes cancers that are predominantly found in men, such as those affecting the tonsils, base of the tongue, and throat.
“Nearly 45% of those surveyed did not know if HPV was linked to cancers beyond cervical,” Paskett noted. “This is concerning because more men are infected with HPV than women and they could unknowingly spread it to their partners.”
Furthermore, 42% of participants mistakenly believed that HPV is more common in women, a misconception likely due to the higher focus on cervical cancer in public health messages. Another 40% of respondents thought that HPV infections always present symptoms, a dangerous assumption since many do not experience symptoms until cancer has already developed.
The Critical Role of HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine, which can prevent up to 90% of infections that lead to cancer, represents a crucial tool in combating these trends. Despite being available since 2006, the survey indicates that uptake remains low, particularly among males. “We have a vaccine that has been shown to reduce the risk of HPV infection by up to 90%,” said Paskett. “This is a powerful tool for cancer prevention that has only been available to us in the past few decades, and we are seeing the impact of those vaccines now through the scientific data.”
Matthew Old, MD, a head and neck surgeon at OSUCCC – James, highlighted the urgency of addressing this issue, noting the rapidly rising rates of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers. “If this trend continues, these cancers could quickly become among the most common forms of cancer in adults between the ages of 45 and 65,” he warned.
HPV and Its Spread: A Closer Look
HPV spreads primarily through intimate contact, including sexual contact involving saliva or ejaculatory fluids, and can even be transmitted during childbirth. If the virus is not cleared by the immune system, it can cause cells to mutate and potentially lead to cancer.
Moving Forward: Increased Awareness and Action
The findings from this survey underscore the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to combat the spread of HPV among men. With HPV-related cancers on the rise, particularly among middle-aged men, it becomes imperative for health campaigns to also focus on educating men about the risks of HPV and the benefits of vaccination.