HPV: It’s Not Just a Women’s Health Issue

When most people hear “HPV,” they think of cervical cancer and women. But here is the reality: Human Papillomavirus affects men too, and recent research has strengthened the case for thinking about HPV vaccination more broadly, regardless of gender.

Because the virus usually has no visible signs, it spreads easily through close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. In fact, most sexually active adults will be exposed to at least one strain of HPV at some point in their lives.

3 Facts Every Man (and Parent) Should Know

1. HPV is linked to male cancers

In men, persistent high-risk HPV infections have been linked to cancers of the throat (oropharyngeal), anus, and penis.

2. There is no “Pap Smear” for men

While women have routine screenings to catch cellular changes early, there are currently no standard screening tests for HPV-related cancers in men. This makes the virus harder to detect early in males, which is why understanding the option of vaccination is so relevant for men and boys.

3. The latest research proves the vaccine works

A major study published in JAMA Oncology (April 2026) analysed records of over 615,000 vaccinated males and 2.29 million unvaccinated males. The data strongly supported a sex-neutral approach to cancer prevention: vaccinated males had a significantly lower risk of developing HPV-related cancers compared to those who were unvaccinated.

What Does the Vaccination Involve?

If you or your son are considering getting vaccinated, here is what to expect at the clinic:

• The Vaccine Used: In Singapore, clinics utilise the 9-valent HPV vaccine, which protects against the nine most common strains of the virus.
• How It Is Given: It is administered as a simple injection into the upper arm muscle.
• Side Effects: Most people experience nothing more than a minor ache or slight redness at the injection site for a day or two.

The Best Age to Get Protected

Medical guidelines strongly emphasise early vaccination, as administering the vaccine before any viral exposure provides the most robust, lifetime immunity.

• The Golden Window (Ages 9–14): This is the ideal time for both boys and girls. The immune response tends to be stronger at younger ages, meaning they require fewer doses.
• The Catch-Up Window (Ages 15–26): Strong risk reduction continues into young adulthood. If you missed it earlier, vaccination is still highly recommended.
• Adults: Because the 9-valent vaccine covers nine strains of the virus, individuals who are already sexually active may not yet have encountered all of them. For adults aged 27 and above, a conversation with a doctor is the best way to assess whether vaccination makes sense given individual health history.

What is the Status in Singapore?

Under Singapore’s National Childhood and Adult Immunisation Schedules (NCIS and NAIS), HPV vaccination is currently recommended for females aged 9 to 26.

There is no national vaccination recommendation for males at this time. However, the 9-valent HPV vaccine is fully approved for use in both males and females in Singapore. Males who wish to consider vaccination are encouraged to speak with a doctor to understand the options and whether it is appropriate for their individual circumstances.

Have questions about HPV vaccination for yourself or your child?

Our doctors are happy to have an open, informative conversation with you.

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