Initially, the HPV vaccine was recommended for administration to girls before the start of sexual activity, between the ages of 10 and 12.

Later, research demonstrated the effectiveness of the vaccine also in boys and since October 1, 2020, the National Vaccination Program (PNV) has extended vaccination against HPV to boys, being administered at age 10.

The maximum age to start this vaccination for boys is 17 years old.

HPV infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection among younger people (aged 15 to 25).

Up to 80% of men and women will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives.

In addition to the anogenital tract, the virus can invade the oral cavity, oropharynx and larynx, causing malignant diseases such as anal and genital cancer, as well as head and neck cancer.

The vaccine is preventive and does not serve to treat the infection in people who are already infected.

“Given that we have evidence of effectiveness up to the age of 26, free vaccination in the PNV should cover these young people up to and including the age of 26, that is, until the day before they turn 27”, argues Carmem Lisboa.

Recognising that “cost is one of the main barriers to HPV vaccination”, the researcher adds that “the fact that it is advertised as a prevention of cervical cancer, aimed at females, has made its implementation in males more difficult ”.

“Vaccination against HPV should be gender neutral”, she emphasises.

For more information into the study of “Impact of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination on Male Disease: A Systematic Review”, click on the link.