Why is HPV vaccination recommended for boys and men?
HPV vaccination helps prevent infections that can cause cancers of the anus, penis and oropharynx; some vaccines also prevent genital warts. Protection is greatest before exposure. The vaccine does not treat an existing infection.
Details
What does the nine-valent vaccine cover?
It targets seven cancer-associated HPV types and two types mainly responsible for genital warts. Calling all nine types high-risk is inaccurate. Vaccination does not prevent every HPV type or every sexually transmitted infection.
Age and dose schedules
US CDC guidance recommends routine vaccination at ages 11–12, with vaccination possible from age nine. Dose number depends on starting age and immune status: most series started before age 15 use two doses, while some situations require three. These are US recommendations; a clinician should check the locally adopted schedule and product availability.
If routine vaccination was missed
Catch-up vaccination or shared decision-making may be appropriate in certain age groups. Bring earlier dose records and disclose previous severe allergies. Previous sexual activity does not automatically remove all benefit, although the expected benefit may differ because of prior exposure.
Related reading: HPV vaccine important for adults?.