Research shows that Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) leads to cancers in both men and women. Successful public health campaigns have increased HPV vaccine uptake, but boys’ vaccination rate continues to lag behind girls. According to a recent study, the vaccine cut men’s cancer risk in half. The vaccine is typically given in 2 doses around age 11-12, as recommended by the American Cancer Society. Because HPV is sexually transmitted infection, the vaccine is most effective when given prior to the onset of sexual activity. The vaccine has significantly reduced HPV-linked cervical cancer in women. Health professionals hope a renewed push to get more boys vaccinated will reduce various cancers caused by the virus. HPV is known to cause tumors in the head and neck, anal area and penis. Building on a solid body of evidence, the new study concluded that men’s risk of developing all of these cancers were reduced by receiving the vaccine at the recommended ages.
