Women have been the main topic concerning HPV or (human papilloma virus) due to the link between HPV and cervical cancer. Recently the spot light has been placed on men, as HPV can affect them as well. HPV in men is as common as it is in women, particularly men who are sexually active, and like women, are at a higher risk for developing some types of cancer.

Fact 1: HPV related cancer of the penis, anus, and oropharynx, are uncommon, however there is a higher risk of getting this type of cancer if a man has HPV.

Fact 2: HPV is passed through genital contact, most often during vaginal and anal sex.

Fact 3: Genital warts can be caused by some types of HPV, and are often painless, and may appear weeks or months after coming into contact with an infected carrier of HPV.

Fact 4: HPV has no symptoms in most men, as many pass it on, without knowing they have it.

Fact 5: Men who are at a high risk for getting HPV, are men who are gay or bisexual, as well as men with a depleted immune system.

Fact 6: There is no treatment available for HPV. Men who have HPV will have it for life.

Fact 7: Men, who carry HPV, can take measures to prevent the spread of the disease, and include wearing condoms, even though condoms do not protect every area.

Fact 8: The only guaranteed method for preventing HPV is to avoid sexual contact.

Fact 9: Men 26 years of age and younger can be treated with a vaccine that may prevent HPV, if it is administered before a man becomes sexually active.

Fact 10: HPV is one of the most common types of sexually transmitted diseases, that effects both men and women.