Should One Disclose a Diagnosis of HPV to Potential Partners: Necessary or Not?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. Approximately 13 million people contract HPV each year, making it the most common STI globally [1]. Among men, genital HPV infections are prevalent, with about 45.2% of men having some form of genital HPV [1].
While most HPV infections resolve on their own without causing symptoms or health problems, high-risk types of HPV can lead to serious complications. These high-risk types are found in about 25.1% of men [1]. High-risk HPV is linked to several types of cancer in men, most commonly oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils) and anal cancer [3]. In the United States, about 21,704 new cases of HPV-associated cancers occur annually among men, with oropharyngeal cancers being the most common [3].
Currently, there is no routine screening for HPV in men, which limits the range of testing options compared to women [2]. However, men who have sex with men or engage in receptive anal sex may be advised to undergo an anal Pap smear to check for abnormal cell changes that could indicate HPV-related issues [2]. Since HPV testing is not standard for men, diagnosis often relies on the presence of symptoms such as genital warts or cancerous lesions.
To get informed about HPV status, men can consult a healthcare provider and discuss the risk of HPV and potential screening options, especially if they have symptoms or engage in high-risk sexual activities. Practicing safe sex, such as using barrier protection like condoms, can also reduce the risk of HPV transmission.
Another important preventive measure is the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine protects against the two low-risk wart-causing strains and seven of the high-risk strains that cause most cancers. It is approved for all genders and is most effective when taken before sexual activity [4].
It's important to remember that it's almost impossible to track who gave HPV to whom and when, so it's likely counterproductive to focus on that. Disclosing one's HPV status to a partner is important for honesty and can prompt a larger conversation about STIs and encourage getting a full panel test. If someone has genital warts, they can assume they have a form of HPV. If you have an HPV diagnosis, it's important to consult your ob-gyn for guidance on what it means for your health and sex life.
In conclusion, while HPV is common and talking about it is not a big deal, it's crucial for men to be informed about the risks, testing options, and preventive measures. By taking proactive steps, men can reduce their risk of HPV-related health issues and ensure open and honest conversations with partners.
References: [1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). HPV Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm [2] American Cancer Society. (2021). HPV and Men. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/hpv-related-cancers/hpv-and-men.html [3] American Cancer Society. (2021). HPV-Associated Cancers in Men. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/infectious-agents/hpv/hpv-associated-cancers-in-men.html [4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). HPV Vaccine. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/hpv/hcp/recommendations.html
- Staying up-to-date on health-and-wellness news reveals that high-risk types of HPV can lead to various cancers in men, particularly oropharyngeal and anal cancers.
- For informed sexual-health decisions, men are advised to discuss their HPV status with healthcare providers, including the risk of HPV, potential screening options, and the benefits of the HPV vaccine.
- In the realm of nutrition, maintaining a balanced diet and practicing safe sex, such as using barrier protection, can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission and promote overall health and wellness.
