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. 2024 Nov 8;22(1):525.
doi: 10.1186/s12916-024-03701-8.

Breaking barriers: why including boys and men is key to HPV prevention

Damian Naidoo  1   2 , Kaymarlin Govender  3 , Joanne E Mantell  4
Affiliations

Breaking barriers: why including boys and men is key to HPV prevention

Damian Naidoo et al. BMC Med. .

Abstract

Despite the common belief that human papillomavirus (HPV) primarily affects women, it is imperative to recognize and address the impact of HPV on boys and men. Overlooking the health implications for males is a notable gap, as efforts have predominantly focused on preventing HPV-related infections in women. This commentary aims to emphasize the importance of HPV awareness and vaccination for boys and men by highlighting the prevalence and consequences of HPV infection, elaborating on the associated health risks, elucidating the benefits of vaccination, and urging readers to recognize the necessity of protecting males from HPV. In addition, the increase in HPV-related cancers in men underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and vaccination. Although specific testing for HPV in men is not available, the inclusion of men and boys in gender-neutral vaccination programs can help reduce the harmful effects of this virus in both genders.

Keywords: Anal cancer; Boys and men; HPV vaccination; HPV-related disease; Human papillomavirus; Immunization programs; Penile cancer.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no competing interests.

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