Extending Quadrivalent Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccination To Males

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Human papilloma virus (HPV)-related genital warts and cancers can lead to significant morbidity. The ACIP 2011 from the United States recommends routine quadrivalent HPV vaccination for both males and females for primary prevention.1 This study reviews current evidence on vaccinating males routinely, and determines if it can be applied to Singapore. Methods: Relevant articles from PubMed were obtained by searches using the search words “quadrivalent HPV vaccination”, “males”, “cancer” and “prevention”. Three retrieved articles are included in this review and 3 additional articles are included from the references of the selected articles. Results: Quadrivalent HPV vaccination is effective in the primary prevention of HPV-related genital warts and cancers in both genders. Effectiveness in the secondary prevention of HPV-related recurrent high-grade intra-epithelial neoplasia(HGAIN) was suggested in a cohort study among men. The vaccine is safe with minor side effects of localised injection site pain. Conclusion: Given the efficacy and safety of quadrivalent HPV vaccination in both males and females, local studies should be done to confirm the benefits of routine vaccination.