HPV Concern For Men: What Do Men Need To Know?
by Jim Diffly 04/24/2008 The Human Papillomavirus infects around 6 million new people each year, and certain strains of the virus can lead to penile or anal cancer in men. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2008, there will be 1,250 men diagnosed with penile cancer and 2,020 men with anal cancer. There are over 100 strains of HPV. HPV is commonly known for causing genital warts, but not all strains cause genital warts or any visible signs, the Mayo Clinic Staff said. Doctors can detect HPV in women during a cervical cancer screening by taking a DNA cell sample. However, doctors often do not take a cell sample for testing unless there are visible signs, or if the patient has a concern. For men there is no test for HPV. Only visible warts or lesions can be DNA tested. The DNA cell sample reveals whether the patient is at high-risk for developing cancer. The test does not reveal the overall status of HPV. There are two types of HPV strains: high-risk, which has a greater chance
