HPV Symptoms, test & vaccine information Singapore

HPV in Men

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses comprising over 100 different strains.¹ Among these, 40 HPV strains infect genital areas, with some strains carrying a larger risk than others.¹

Low-risk HPVs

Low-risk HPVs typically cause no symptoms.² About 90% of genital warts are caused by non-cancerous HPV types 6 and 11.^1,2 Other HPV strains cause warts on the skin of different body areas.²

High-risk HPVs

High-risk HPV strains are associated with cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancer in women, and an increased risk of HPV-related cancers in men.¹ Among these, HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for most HPV-related cancers.¹

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STI). Approximately 80% of men and women will be infected with HPV at some point in their lifetime.³ Although HPV typically poses fewer health risks in men than in women, preventing HPV in men will reduce their risk of transmitting HPV to their partners.⁴

About HPV

HPV in Singapore

How is HPV transmitted?

What are the signs of HPV?

Are men affected by HPV?

Is HPV Treatable?

HPV in Singapore

In Singapore, the prevalence of HPV is highest in women aged 20–24, with one-fifth infected with high-risk HPVs (HPV- 51, 16, 52, 58, 66).⁵ In 2020, an estimated 309 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer, mostly among those aged 15-45, while 172 succumbed to the disease.⁶ On the other hand, about 38 men were diagnosed with anal cancer.⁶

HPV prevention

Men can play a vital role in combatting HPV. Take steps to lower your risk of contracting HPV and HPV-related diseases.

HPV vaccination

The HPV vaccine helps protect against certain HPV strains associated with genital warts and HPV-related cancers.⁴ It can be given to children as young as 9 years and adults up to age 45, and is most effective when given before being sexually active.¹

Safe sex

Condoms do not offer complete protection against HPV as they do not cover the entire genital area.⁴ However, using them correctly can reduce the risk of HPV infections and other STIs.⁴

Regular check-ups

Currently, the CDC does not recommend routine testing (also called ‘screening’) for HPV in men. CDC also does not recommend routine testing for diseases from HPV before there are signs or symptoms in men.⁴