HPV SYMPTOMS IN MALES

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is a family of viruses with over 100 types. All types can cause infections on the skin and mucosal surfaces. Approximately 40 of these types affect the sexual organs and are usually sexually transmitted. HPV types are divided into "low risk" and "high risk". Low risk types typically lead to genital warts (especially types 6 and 11), high-risk types can lead to cancer (especially types 16 and 18).

HPV is usually a sexually transmitted infection. It can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. In addition, there are types that can spread through skin-to-skin contact. Warts on the hands and feet can spread through handshakes and the use of common slippers. Rarely, it can be passed from a mother to her baby during birth.

Most HPV infections are "silent" infections that do not show symptoms or signs. When symptoms do appear, they usually manifest as genital warts. These can appear on the penis, testicles, anus, urethra, or in the mouth and throat. High-risk HPV types can lead to certain types of cancer (e.g., penis, anus, mouth, and throat cancers), but these cases are rare.

Genital warts appear as small, flesh-colored or gray-white bumps or growths. They can be found alone or in clusters. They are usually painless but can cause itching or discomfort.

Yes, genital warts are typically a symptom of low-risk HPV types (especially HPV 6 and 11). However, the absence of genital warts in a person does not mean that there is no HPV. Many HPV infections do not show symptoms.

High-risk HPV types can lead to serious health problems such as penile, anal, mouth, and throat cancers. However, HPV infections leading to these types of cancer are generally rare.

If HPV presents symptoms in the form of warts, it is generally diagnosed with an examination. If the symptoms are not clear or there is a suspicious situation, an HPV test or tissue biopsy may be performed. In particular, a biopsy is generally required to determine the presence of HPV in mouth or throat cancers.

Is it true that HPV increases the risk of anogenital cancer in men?

Yes, high-risk HPV types can increase the risk of cancer in the anogenital area (penis and anus) and the mouth-throat area.

The most effective method of protection is the HPV vaccine. Also, using a condom and limiting the number of sexual partners can reduce the risk, but it does not provide complete protection against HPV.

Yes, the HPV vaccine is recommended for men. The vaccine is generally recommended for children aged 11-12, but can be given from the age of 9. There is no upper age limit for vaccination. No matter how old you are, you can get the HPV vaccine.

The risk of sexually transmitting HPV is quite high. To reduce the risk, a condom can be used, but it is important to remember that HPV can be transmitted from areas not fully protected by the condom. Limiting the number of sexual partners and the HPV vaccine can also reduce the risk.

Men can transmit HPV to their sexual partners. This increases the risk of the partners developing HPV-related genital warts and cancer.

Yes, HPV can be transmitted through oral and anal sex. This can increase the risk of HPV-associated cancer in the oral and anus region.

Yes, HPV can be transmitted by individuals who do not show symptoms. In fact, most HPV infections do not show symptoms, and therefore people can transmit the virus to others without being aware that they carry it.