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Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. It is particularly dangerous for women, as certain strains can lead to cervical cancer. The epidemiology of human papillomavirus in women is well-documented, but less is known about the epidemiology of HPV in men. Therefore, Spanish researchers decided to provide updated global and regional comprehensive estimates of the prevalence of genital HPV infection in men by type and age.
How the Research Was Conducted
Scientists from the Catalan Institute of Oncology in Barcelona conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the prevalence of genital HPV infection among the general male population. They analyzed studies conducted between 1995 and 2022, which investigated the prevalence of HPV infection among men over the age of 15.
The studies included in the analysis required participants to be properly tested using PCR or DNA analysis. Studies involving men from high-risk groups, as well as those who had been vaccinated against HPV or circumcised, were excluded.
Meta-Analysis
Only samples from anogenital areas were included in the meta-analysis, as high-risk HPV strains are typically present in these areas. To assess the regional and global prevalence of any type of HPV, high-risk human papillomavirus, and specific types of HPV, taking age into account, a random-effects model was utilized.
The analysis encompassed 65 studies involving 44,769 men from 35 different countries.
Prevalence of the Human Papillomavirus Among Men
Even among men aged 15 and older, the prevalence of HPV was high. Every third man in the world had at least one case of genital HPV. Moreover, one in every five men worldwide was infected with at least one type of high-risk HPV.
Type 16 dominated, followed by type 6. Additionally, the age analysis revealed that the prevalence of HPV was high among young men and remained high in adulthood. The prevalence was highest among men aged 25 to 29, after which it stabilized but remained high. Asia had the lowest rates, while HPV type 35 consistently prevailed among men and women in sub-Saharan Africa.
The authors of the study noted that their results confirm that sexually active men, regardless of age, serve as a reservoir for genital HPV infection.
These estimates emphasize the importance of incorporating men in comprehensive HPV prevention strategies to reduce HPV-related morbidity and mortality in men and ultimately achieve elimination of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases.
Study authors
