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If you think HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is only happened to women, think again! In a recent study, it is suggested that HPV can cause oral cancer in men, too.
In recent years, advertiser had brought our attention to HPV (Human Papillomavirus). The "One Less" campaign gears toward girls and young ladies, urging them to get the vaccination.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a complete list of HPV information, from how the disease is contracted, to the signs and symptoms of HPV infection. Click on the link, and read for a more comprehensive perceptive.
This disease was a great concern for females, but now it is suggested that men could also get oral cancer through HPV.
Although HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer, and is widely acknowledged; little is mentioned about the outcome of this disease in men, which has become a leading cause for oral cancer in a recent study.
How does HPV affect men?
•· HPV causes cancer in the upper throat through oral sex with someone who is infected.
•· It can also cause genital warts, penile, and anal cancer through sexual contact with a partner who is infected with HPV.
What to Do to Prevent HPV?
•· If you have a young daughter, call your family physician for a checkup, and ask about HPV vaccine. Some practices do not carry this vaccination in their offices. They suggested calling the Department of Health in your local city.
•· Since this vaccine is not available for men, we can prevent the spreading of this disease by first protecting ourselves, and avoid infecting others.
•· Having the same partner is less likely to pass the disease back and forth.
Ways to Check for HPV
•· Have a regular screen test by your physician for lesions/warts.
•· Anal Pap test is suggested as a precaution step.
This website provides great information on this subject: HPV Causing More Oral Cancer in Men - TIME
If you have not check out the information on HPV, this is a good time to do so. Merk & Co. Inc., the maker of HPV vaccine, is working on getting permission from the government to give boys this vaccination also, probably in the year 2009. Meanwhile, be careful, and think safe sex.
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