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Use our guide below in discussion with your health care professional.
Download HPV prevention guideThe human papillomavirus (HPV) is a highly contagious virus and the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world.
HPV can lead to three different cancers in men: anal, penile, and head and neck cancer. It can also cause genital warts.
Whether your partner(s) is male or female, there’s a risk for both you and your partner(s) of transmission of HPV.
HPV-related head and neck cancer is on the rise in Canada.
In 2012, head and neck cancer was the most common HPV-related cancer in Canada with 1,335 cases, followed by 1,300 cases of cervical cancer, and 475 cases of anal cancer.
The incidence rate of HPV-associated head and neck cancer was more than 4.5 times higher in males than females.
You can reduce your risk of contracting HPV by using a condom during sex, quitting smoking, and ensuring that you’ve been vaccinated against HPV.
Vaccination helps prevent most HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
Speak to your partner(s), as they should also be vaccinated against HPV.
It’s never too late to get the HPV vaccine. Even if you’ve previously been exposed to HPV or had an HPV-related precancer or cancer, the guidelines are clear – there’s always benefit to reducing your risk of HPV recurrence.
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends the HPV vaccine from 9 years of age onwards. There is no upper age limit.
There is currently no HPV screening test for men in Canada. That’s why it’s especially important for men to see their doctor for routine health exams, where they can be examined for genital warts, signs of penile or anal cancer, and head and neck lesions.