A large international study provides compelling evidence that the 9-valent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine significantly reduces the risk of HPV-related cancers in males. Analyzing data from over 2.9 million males aged 9 to 26, researchers found that vaccination was associated with a 46% lower risk of developing cancers of the head and neck, oesophagus, anus, and penis compared to unvaccinated individuals.
The protective effect was consistent across age groups. For boys aged 9 to 14, vaccination was linked to a 42% reduction in cancer risk, while for those aged 15 to 26, the reduction reached 50%.
These findings strengthen the case for gender-neutral vaccination programs, highlighting substantial benefits for males in preventing HPV-related diseases and reducing the overall cancer burden.