HPV Vaccination for Men?

A recent study estimated around 20,000 cases of cancer each year are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). That HPV is the cause for nearly all cases of cervical cancer is well known. However, what is less well known is the fact that this virus also causes other types of cancer, such as those of the head and neck, anus and penile. In fact, in the USA, around 11,000 cases of oropharyngeal cancer (a type of head an neck cancer) is associated with HPV infection! That is, HPV can cause cancer not just in women, but men alike.

Oral sex has a lot to do with this hike in oral cancers linked to HPV exposure. Several sexually transmitted diseases are spread by oral sex; HPV is certainly not an exclusion. So why do we not hear as much about boys getting the same vaccination that is available to girls? It most definitely has to do with the same conservative attitudes that we had to deal with prior to the acceptance of HPV vaccinations for little girls. Most parents do not want to think of their children engaging in sexual activity. Further, parents and religious officials complain that HPV vaccinations may, in fact, encourage promiscuity. Although, isn't that exactly what they said about birth control?!

Health Canada and FDA should approve HPV vaccinations such as Gardasil for both boys and girls. The vaccine has been approved for use in males in Australia and the EU. It's time to follow suit.

What do you think?

Welcome

Hello and welcome to my blog. If you've made it this far, it shows your health and well-being is important to you. As a toxicologist by profession, I will be posting current news and articles about substances that may affect our body; be it medications, supplements, envirnomental factors, infections or public health in general. Your input and discussion on any of the topics is encouraged.

Enjoy your stay and do pass on any knowledge you may have absorbed from my blog!