Burden of human papillomavirus infection and related comorbidities in men: implications for research, disease prevention and health promotion among Hispanic men

Abstract

Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most commonly diagnosed sexually transmitted infections world-wide. Over the last two decades, research has established a strong causal link between specific types of HPV infection and cancer, particularly cervical, anal, vulvar/vaginal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancer. Limited epidemiological studies of anogenital HPV infection have been conducted in Hispanic populations (including Puerto Rico), and population-based incidence and prevalence estimates of HPV infection among Hispanics are limited. Studies that evaluate knowledge and awareness of HPV among men are also scarce. With the world-wide introduction of two new prophylactic vaccines against high-risk HPVs causing cervical cancer, and the recent FDA approval of the quadrivalent vaccine in preventing genital warts in men, there is an urgency to determine the burden of HPV in Hispanic populations before vaccine programs are implemented on a widespread basis. Knowledge and acceptability of the vaccine prior to implementation of these programs are also necessary to allow a targeted assessment. This review article summarizes existing research on HPV infection and HPV-related morbidities in men, with a particular emphasis on Hispanic men in the United States and Puerto Rico. Three major areas are discussed: (1) genital warts, (2) HPV and related cancers and (3) biobehavioral and psychosocial factors related to HPV infection and vaccination. Specific recommendations for advancing HPV research and knowledge among Hispanic populations also are suggested.

Figure 1

Incidence and mortality trends of infection related cancers in Puerto Rico and among selected racial/ethnic groups in the United States. Source: Modified from: Incidence and mortality rates of selected infection-related cancers in Puerto Rico and in the United States. BMC Cancer, 2010.

Figure 2

Incidence trends of HPV related cancers in Hispanic men in Puerto Rico and the US: 1992–2004. Data Source: Puerto Rico Central Cancer Registry. Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, April 2010.