Misconceptions about HPV Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted virus associated with various cancers and other diseases. However, there are some misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding HPV. Here are 9 common misconceptions about HPV and explanations of the related facts.

Myth 1: Can only women be infected with HPV?

Both men and women have the potential to be infected with HPV. Men can contract HPV and transmit it to others. HPV infection can also pose risks to the health of men, such as genital warts. Even HPV can cause various types of cancer in men, including cancers affecting the tonsils, base of tongue, anus and penis. While penile and anal cancers are rare, throat cancer is the most common HPV-related cancer in men.

Myth 2: Can only sexually active individuals get HPV?

While sexual activity is the primary route of HPV transmission, HPV can also spread through skin-to-skin or mucous membrane contact. This means that non-sexual transmission is possible, such as through skin-to-skin contact.

Myth 3: Can only individuals with multiple sexual partners be infected HPV.

At least half of sexually active individuals will have an HPV infection at some point in their lifetime. While having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of HPV infection, it is still possible to contract HPV even with only one sexual partner. Since HPV is common within the human body, it is possible to become infected with the virus even when engaging in sexual activity with only one partner.

Myth 4: Does the absence of symptoms indicate the absence of HPV infection?

In most cases, HPV infection does not produce any symptoms or health issues. Some individuals may discover their HPV infection only when they develop genital warts or when abnormal results are detected in a cervical screening for women. However, even if you have no symptoms, you can still transmit the virus to sexual partners.

Myth 5: Can the use of condoms help prevent HPV infection?

Condoms are highly effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmitted through fluids exchange, such as gonorrhea and HIV. However, they provide less protection against STIs transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, like HPV and herpes. While using condoms can reduce the risk of HPV infection, it does not completely eliminate the possibility of infection. HPV can be transmitted through contact with skin that is not covered by a condom, such as the skin around the genitals. Additionally, condoms do not provide protection on the surface of the skin, and certain types of HPV may exist in areas that are not easily covered by a condom. Therefore, while using condoms is an important protective measure, it is still recommended to receive the HPV vaccine and undergo regular screenings to detect precancerous lesions early and receive appropriate treatment.

Myth 6: Does HPV infection always result in cancer?

Most HPV infections are cleared by the body’ immune system. However, infection with certain high-risk types of HPV can potentially lead to cancer, particularly cervical cancer and other genital cancers.

Myth 7: Do only women require vaccination against HPV?

Men should also receive the HPV vaccine. The vaccine can protect men from the risks of HPV infection and related diseases, such as genital warts and oropharyngeal (mouth and throat) cancers. It can help prevent 90% of genital warts in men. Additionally, vaccination can reduce the risk of transmitting HPV to others.

Myth 8: What are the consequences of HPV infection in men?

Men can be at risk of developing cancer as a result of HPV infection, with a higher likelihood of developing head and neck cancers compared to females. Around 70% of head and neck cancers are associated with HPV. Additionally, over 90% of anal cancers and over 90% of penile cancers are caused by HPV. Cancer treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgical treatment for throat cancer can potentially lead to difficulties in speaking or swallowing, resulting in social barriers, isolation, and feelings of loneliness. Treatment for penile cancer may involve partial or total removal of the penis, which can affect urinary function and sexual activity. Radiation therapy for anal cancer can also potentially result in infertility.

Myth 9: Does being vaccinated against HPV eliminate the need for cervical cancer screening?

Even if vaccinated against HPV, regular cervical cell screenings (such as Pap smears) or HPV DNA testing are still necessary to detect any abnormal cell changes in the cervix. HPV vaccines do not protect against all HPV types that can potentially cause cancer. If an individual is already infected with a certain type of HPV prior to vaccination, the vaccine cannot protect against that specific HPV type. Currently, the 9-valent HPV vaccine provides the most comprehensive coverage, protecting against 7 high-risk and 2 low-risk HPV virus types. However, there are over 200 types of HPV, including 14 high-risk types that can cause cancer. Even with HPV vaccination, it is still possible to become infected with other HPV types that are not covered by the vaccine. Therefore, regular cervical cancer screening is still necessary after receiving the HPV vaccine.

Myth 10: Can cervical cell screening (cytology) replace HPV DNA testing?

Research has shown that HPV DNA testing is more effective in detecting precancerous lesions or cancer compared to cytology, with higher sensitivity (94.6% vs. 55.4%). It is also cost-effective and safe. According to the latest guidelines from the World Health Organization in 2021, it is recommended to use HPV DNA testing rather than cytology as the primary screening method for cervical cancer in the general population and in HIV-infected individuals. In Hong Kong, it is recommended for sexually active females aged 25 to 29 to undergo cytology screening every three years. For females aged 30 to 64, they can choose to undergo cytology screening every three years, or HPV testing every five years, or co-testing (combination of cytology and HPV testing) every five years. Women aged 65 or above who have had normal screening results in the past 10 years may consider stopping screening.

In conclusion, there are common misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding HPV. It is important to understand the facts and related information about HPV. Regular screening and HPV vaccination are crucial measures for preventing HPV infection and associated diseases. If you have further questions about HPV infection or vaccines, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for accurate advice and guidance.

Reference:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9067386/
https://www.hpv.com.hk/male/