Regardless of gender, the lifetime risk of contracting HPV is as high as 80%! Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a DNA variant virus with over a hundred types, among which two types (16 and 18) have a very high probability of developing into cervical cancer!

In Taiwan, HPV vaccines are currently available in bivalent and 9-valent types. The 9-valent vaccine covers nine types of HPV viruses, namely (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, 58). The vaccine can not only prevent cervical cancer but also prevent genital warts (condyloma) and related cancers around the genital area, such as vaginal cancer and vulvar cancer in women, penile cancer in men, and even oropharyngeal cancer and anal cancer, which have been found to be strongly associated with HPV infection!

HPV vaccines are antibody vaccines, and the recommended age for administration is 9–26 years old. The earlier the vaccine is administered, or if administered before the first sexual experience, the more it can provide immunity against human papillomavirus!

Ｑ： What are the transmission routes of HPV?
Ａ： Human papillomavirus (HPV) is mainly transmitted through sexual contact. During sexual activity, infection occurs through contact with skin, mucosa, or bodily fluids. Sometimes, external genital contact with objects carrying the HPV virus can also lead to infection, especially in saunas or when using public towels. If one accidentally touches the virus, infection is possible. The virus is virtually everywhere!

Ｑ： Why is the HPV vaccine also called the cervical cancer vaccine?
Ａ： HPV types 16 and 18 are the most common high-risk human papillomaviruses, associated with precancerous cervical lesions, cervical cancer, and external genital cancers in both men and women. The Chinese name of the HPV vaccine is “human papillomavirus vaccine.”

Ｑ： Who is likely to get infected with HPV?
Ａ： Both men and women can get infected with HPV. People with non-monogamous sexual partners belong to the high-risk group for HPV. Getting the HPV vaccine not only reduces the chance of developing genital cancers for oneself but also protects sexual partners. Especially in cases where one unknowingly transmits it to their partner, it often leads to guilt and regret!

Ｑ： What is the recommended age to receive the HPV vaccine?
Ａ： The HPV vaccine, when administered before any sexual activity, produces more complete antibodies. However, people of any age should get vaccinated, as protection is still provided!

Ｑ： What are the symptoms after getting HPV?
A：Most HPV-infected individuals have no obvious symptoms. Usually, 90% of HPV infections disappear within a year due to autoimmunity. If the infected person develops condyloma or other genital lesions, medical attention is recommended as soon as possible. If HPV infection lasts more than one year, it is called persistent infection, and women have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer in the future. In addition, HPV infection can cause penile cancer in men, and anal, tonsil, oropharyngeal, and tongue cancers in both sexes.

Ｑ： Who should not receive the 9-valent HPV vaccine?
Ａ： People who have allergic reactions after vaccination, pregnant women, those planning to become pregnant, or those with other special medical histories are less suitable for vaccination. If you have a fever, cold, or are taking medications on the day of vaccination, be sure to inform your doctor for assessment.

Ｑ： After receiving the HPV vaccine, is regular Pap smear screening still needed?
Ａ：Yes. Because the HPV vaccine covers different types of viruses depending on the valency, it can prevent 60–90% of HPV infections. Current vaccines do not cover all virus types, so even after vaccination, safe sexual practices and regular Pap smear screening are still necessary for full protection. If you have had HPV types 16 or 18, it is essential to receive the HPV vaccine and undergo Pap smear testing more frequently.

HPV infection does not only occur in women—it is even more common in men. Even with only one sexual partner, the chance of HPV infection is as high as 60%. If one has 3 to 6 sexual partners in a lifetime, the risk of HPV infection is as high as 90%! If men are infected with HPV, the rate of generating their own antibodies is less than 10%, and the risk of reinfection is extremely high. Therefore, men should especially receive the 9-valent HPV vaccine. Because the virus may survive on any item used by an infected person, not only sexual partners but even cohabiting family members are at high risk of exposure in a contaminated environment. Therefore, receiving the vaccine not only protects yourself but also protects your family’s health. As long as you are vaccinated, you are protected!