Male circumcision, penile human papillomavirus infection, and cervical cancer in female partners

Male circumcision and human papillomavirus infection in men: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

We systematically reviewed the evidence for an association between male circumcision and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection and genital warts in men.

METHODS

PubMed and Embase were searched to 15 September 2010. The measure of effect was the adjusted odds ratio (OR) or rate ratio (RR) when present and the crude estimate otherwise. Random effects meta-analyses were used to calculate summary measures of effect.

RESULTS

We identified 23 papers about the association between circumcision and HPV DNA. Circumcised men were less likely to have prevalent genital HPV infection than uncircumcised men (summary OR, 0.57, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45-0.71) with between-study heterogeneity (P-heterogeneity = 0.006; I(2) = 50.5%; 19 studies). Similar summary associations were seen in clinical and methodological subgroups. The effect of circumcision was stronger at the glans/corona (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.37-0.60) and urethra (OR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.12-1.05) compared with sites more distal to the foreskin. There was weak evidence that circumcision was associated with decreased HPV incidence (summary RR, 0.75, 95% CI, 0.57-0.99; 3 studies) and increased HPV clearance (summary RR, 1.33; 95% CI, 0.89-1.98; 3 studies) but no evidence of an association with prevalent genital warts (OR, 0.93, 95% CI, 0.65-1.33; 15 studies).

CONCLUSIONS

Several countries are expanding access to voluntary medical male circumcision to reduce HIV prevalence. This could provide additional benefit in reducing HPV prevalence.

Voluntary medical male circumcision: modeling the impact and cost of expanding male circumcision for HIV prevention in eastern and southern Africa

BACKGROUND

There is strong evidence showing that voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) reduces HIV incidence in men. To inform the VMMC policies and goals of 13 priority countries in eastern and southern Africa, we estimate the impact and cost of scaling up adult VMMC using updated, country-specific data.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We use the Decision Makers' Program Planning Tool (DMPPT) to model the impact and cost of scaling up adult VMMC in Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Nyanza Province in Kenya. We use epidemiologic and demographic data from recent household surveys for each country. The cost of VMMC ranges from US$65.85 to US$95.15 per VMMC performed, based on a cost assessment of VMMC services aligned with the World Health Organization's considerations of models for optimizing volume and efficiencies. Results from the DMPPT models suggest that scaling up adult VMMC to reach 80% coverage in the 13 countries by 2015 would entail performing 20.34 million circumcisions between 2011 and 2015 and an additional 8.42 million between 2016 and 2025 (to maintain the 80% coverage). Such a scale-up would result in averting 3.36 million new HIV infections through 2025. In addition, while the model shows that this scale-up would cost a total of US$2 billion between 2011 and 2025, it would result in net savings (due to averted treatment and care costs) amounting to US$16.51 billion.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that rapid scale-up of VMMC in eastern and southern Africa is warranted based on the likely impact on the region's HIV epidemics and net savings. Scaling up of safe VMMC in eastern and southern Africa will lead to a substantial reduction in HIV infections in the countries and lower health system costs through averted HIV care costs.

Epidemiology and burden of HPV infection and related diseases: implications for prevention strategies

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a necessary, although not sufficient cause of cervical cancer. Globally, HPV infection accounts for an estimated 530,000 cervical cancer cases (~270,000 deaths) annually, with the majority (86% of cases, 88% of deaths) occurring in developing countries. Approximately 90% of anal cancers and a smaller subset (<50%) of other cancers (oropharyngeal, penile, vaginal, vulvar) are also attributed to HPV. In total, HPV accounts for 5.2% of the worldwide cancer burden. HPVs 16 and 18 are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer cases and, especially HPV 16, for a large proportion of other cancers. Prophylactic vaccination targeting these genotypes is therefore expected to have a major impact on the burden of cervical cancer as well as that of other HPV-related cancers. Over the past 50 years, organized or opportunistic screening with Papanicolaou (Pap) cytology has led to major reductions in cervical cancer in most developed countries. However, due to lack of resources or inadequate infrastructure, many countries have failed to reduce cervical cancer mortality through screening. HPV DNA testing recently emerged as a likely candidate to replace Pap cytology for primary screening. It is less prone to human error and more sensitive than Pap in detecting high-grade cervical lesions. For countries with national vaccination programs, HPV testing may also serve as a low cost strategy to monitor long term vaccine efficacy. Introduction of well organized vaccination and screening programs should be a priority for all countries. Increased support from donors is needed to support this cause.

[Circumcision: history, religion and law]

The aim of this article is to describe the circumcision procedure during history, its therapeutic and preventive goals, with focus on bioethical, economic and law issues. The origins of this practice are lost in antiquity. It was performed since 3000 BC by the Egyptians for hygienic and religious reasons. Moreover, male circumcision is a religious commandment in Judaism and Islam, and it is customary in some Oriental Orthodox and other Christian churches of Africa. Nowadays, circumcision is performed as a routine procedure by the Jews and the Muslims for religious reasons. The world prevalence of men with circumcision is 12.5-33%, especially in USA, Canada, Islamic people and Africa; in Europe the prevalence rate is low (in Great Britain it is 1.5%). Currently, male circumcision is being highly debated because of ethical, law and scientific issues and the different roles of this procedure: therapeutic, prophylactic (but there is no universal consensus) and ritualistic role. Nowadays, in Italy there is a strong debate about the consensus for this practice and its indications. The Italian law does not allow performing ritualistic circumcision, as a free of charge procedure in public hospitals, at the government's expenses, because the Italian law must protect different religious cultures, in name of the laity of the State. Thus, national bioethical committee (CNB) has established that ritualistic circumcision may only be performed on a paying basis in public hospitals. As a protective practice, circumcision has decreased in the entire world because of the improvement of hygienical conditions and, above all, the lack of unanimous consent on the real usefulness of protective circumcision, even if several studies have recently demonstrated the protecting role of male circumcision against HIV infection.

Circumcision of HIV-infected men and transmission of human papillomavirus to female partners: analyses of data from a randomised trial in Rakai, Uganda

BACKGROUND

Male circumcision reduces the transmission of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) in HIV-uninfected men and their female partners. We assessed whether circumcision of HIV-infected men would reduce the transmission of high-risk HPV to their female partners.

METHODS

Female partners of HIV-infected men (aged 15-49 years) in Rakai, Uganda, with CD4 counts of greater than 350 cells per mL who were randomly assigned to undergo circumcision immediately (intervention group) and after 24 months (control group) were assessed for infection with high-risk HPV. Randomisation was done in blocks of 20, stratified by community, with computer-generated random numbers. Laboratory technicians and female fieldworkers were masked to the circumcision status of male participants. The main outcome assessed in this study was the effects of circumcision of HIV-infected men on transmission of HPV to their female partners. Analysis was by intention to treat. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00124878.

FINDINGS

474 men were assigned to the intervention group, 448 to the control group. 211 women were in consensual relationships with 193 men in the intervention group, and 171 women were in consensual unions with 155 men in the control group. High-risk HPV at the 2-year follow-up was prevalent in 88 female partners (55%) of 159 men in the intervention group and 68 (52%) of 131 female partners of men in the control group (prevalence risk ratio 1·07, 95% CI 0·86-1·32, p=0·64). Incidence of high-risk HPV over 2 years was 32·0 per 100 person-years in the female partners of men in the intervention group and 30·6 per 100 person-years in the female partners of men in the control group (incidence rate ratio 1·05, 0·77-1·43, p=0·78). No difference was noted in the clearance of genotype-specific high-risk HPV between the intervention group (196 [46%] of 424) and control group (167 [48%] of 347; rate ratio 0·96, 0·83-1·12; p=0·61).

INTERPRETATION

Because circumcision of HIV-infected men did not affect transmission of high-risk HPV to their female partners, promotion of consistent safe sexual practices for HIV-infected men remains important.

FUNDING

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and National Institutes of Health.

Epidemiology of HPV genotypes in Uganda and the role of the current preventive vaccines: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Limited data are available on the distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes in the general population and in invasive cervical cancer (ICC) in Uganda. Yet, with the advent of preventive HPV vaccines that target HPV 16 and 18 responsible for causing about 70% of ICC cases in the world, such information is crucial to predict how vaccination and HPV-based screening will influence prevention of ICC.

METHODS

To review the distribution of HPV infection and prevalent genotypes, electronic databases (e.g. PubMed/MEDLINE and HINARI) were searched for peer reviewed English articles on HPV infection up to November 30, 2010. Eligible studies were selected according to the following criteria: DNA-confirmed cervical or male genital HPV prevalence and genotypes, HPV incidence estimates and HPV seroprevalence among participants.

RESULTS

Twenty studies were included in the review. Among HIV negative adult women, the prevalence of HR-HPV infections ranged from 10.2% -40.0% compared to 37.0% -100.0% among HIV positive women. Among HIV positive young women aged below 25 years, the prevalence of HR-HPV genotypes ranged from 41.6% -75.0% compared to 23.7% -67.1% among HIV negative women. Multiple infections with non vaccine HR-HPV genotypes were frequent in both HIV positive and HIV negative women. The main risk factors for prevalent HPV infections were age, lifetime number of sexual partners and HIV infection. Incident infections with HR-HPV genotypes were more frequent among adult HIV positive than HIV negative women estimated at 17.3 and 7.0 per 100 person-years, respectively. Similarly, incident HR-HPV among young women aged below 25 years were more frequent among HIV positive (40.0 per 100 person-years) than HIV negative women (20.3 per 100 person-years) women. The main risk factor for incident infection was HIV infection. HPV 16 and 18 were the most common genotypes in ICC with HPV 16/18 contributing up to 73.5% of cases with single infections.Among uncircumcised adult HIV positive males, HR-HPV prevalence ranged from 55.3% -76.6% compared to 38.6% -47.6% in HIV negative males. Incident and multiple HR-HPV infections were frequent in HIV positive males. Being uncircumcised was the main risk factor for both prevalent and incident HPV infection.

CONCLUSION

Infections with HR-HPV genotypes were very common particularly among HIV positive individuals and young women irrespective of HIV status. Given the high prevalence of HIV infection, HPV-associated conditions represent a major public health burden in Uganda. However, although the most common HPV genotypes in ICC cases in Uganda were those targeted by current preventive vaccines, there were a large number of individuals infected with other HR-HPV genotypes. Technology allowing, these other HR-HPV types should be considered in the development of the next generation of vaccines.

Male foreskin and oncogenic human papillomavirus infection in men and their female partners

Persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection causes cervical cancer, the third leading cause of cancer mortality in women worldwide. High rates of HR-HPV and cervical cancer occur in sub-Saharan Africa and are exacerbated by the HIV epidemic, making prevention of HR-HPV and HIV priorities. Male circumcision reduces HIV acquisition in men. As presented in this article, randomized controlled trial data also demonstrate that male circumcision reduces penile HR-HPV infection in both HIV-negative and -positive men. Male circumcision of HIV-negative men also reduces the prevalence and incidence of HR-HPV infections in their female partners. However, male circumcision of HIV-positive men has no effect on HR-HPV infection in their female partners. These data demonstrate that male circumcision is most effective prior to sexual debut, and the presence of the male foreskin facilitates HIV and HR-HPV infection in men and their female partners. Additional studies that utilize the foreskin mucosa obtained at the time of male circumcision are needed to assess the mucosal microenvironment in HIV and HR-HPV coinfections to develop additional preventive and therapeutic approaches.

Age-specific prevalence of human papillomavirus infection in males: a global review

PURPOSE

Global data on age-specific prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in males, especially for oncogenic HPV types 16 and 18, are essential for future efforts to prevent HPV-related diseases, including expanded access to HPV prophylactic vaccines for boys and young men.

METHODS

A systematic review of peer-reviewed publications was conducted to summarize worldwide data on genital HPV-DNA prevalence in men. Studies using polymerase chain reaction or hybrid capture detection assays were included.

RESULTS

Approximately 6,600 abstracts were identified. Of them, 64 reported age-specific HPV prevalence and were included in the review. Of these, 38 were from populations at high risk of HPV infections, such as sexually transmitted infection clinic attendees, human immunodeficiency virus-positive males, and male partners of women with HPV infection or abnormal cytology. The largest proportions of studies were from Europe (38%) and North America (25%), with smaller proportions from Central and South America (19%), Asia (11%), and Africa (5%). Across all regions, data on HPV prevalence were generally limited to men >18 years of age. HPV prevalence was high among sexually active men in all regions but with considerable variation, from 1% to 84% among low-risk men and from 2% to 93% among high-risk men. Peak HPV prevalence spanned a wide range of ages and was generally not concentrated in the younger age groups. Age-specific prevalence curves were relatively flat or declined only slightly following peak prevalence.

CONCLUSIONS

Genital HPV infection in men varies widely, both between and within high- and low-risk groups and by geographic region. Compared with that in women, HPV prevalence in men seems to peak at slightly older ages and remains constant or decreases slightly with increasing age, suggesting persistent HPV infection or a higher rate of reinfection.

Current and future strategies in the diagnosis and management of penile cancer

Penile cancer is an uncommon malignancy that has a devastating effect on the patient while also being challenging to diagnose and treat. By implementing preventive measures, we can decrease the incidence of this disease and improve the quality of life of our patients. Early detection plays an important role in disease control and proper diagnostic modalities must be used in order to accurately identify the cancer and its progression. Primary penile lesions should be initially approached when surgically feasible and clinically appropriate with penile preserving surgical techniques. Advances in inguinal lymph node detection and management, has improved the clinical outcome of penile cancer. Advanced penile cancer still portends a poor prognosis and should be approached via a multimodal treatment regimen. In this review, we address the importance of prevention, early detection, and the contemporary management of primary penile lesions, as well as the advances in inguinal lymph node disease detection and surgical treatment, for both localized and advanced disease.

The Strong Protective Effect of Circumcision against Cancer of the Penis

Male circumcision protects against cancer of the penis, the invasive form of which is a devastating disease confined almost exclusively to uncircumcised men. Major etiological factors are phimosis, balanitis, and high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which are more prevalent in the glans penis and coronal sulcus covered by the foreskin, as well as on the penile shaft, of uncircumcised men. Circumcised men clear HPV infections more quickly. Phimosis (a constricted foreskin opening impeding the passage of urine) is confined to uncircumcised men, in whom balanitis (affecting 10%) is more common than in circumcised men. Each is strongly associated with risk of penile cancer. These findings have led to calls for promotion of male circumcision, especially in infancy, to help reduce the global burden of penile cancer. Even more relevant globally is protection from cervical cancer, which is 10-times more common, being much higher in women with uncircumcised male partners. Male circumcision also provides indirect protection against various other infections in women, along with direct protection for men from a number of genital tract infections, including HIV. Given that adverse consequences of medical male circumcision, especially when performed in infancy, are rare, this simple prophylactic procedure should be promoted.

Human papillomaviruses as therapeutic targets in human cancer

Cervical carcinomas are almost universally associated with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, and are a leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. HPV oncoproteins contribute to cancer initiation and progression and their expression is necessary for the maintenance of the transformed state. The fact that the initiating oncogenic insult, infection with a high-risk HPV and viral oncoprotein expression, is common to almost all cervical cancers offers unique opportunities for prevention, early detection, and therapy. The potential for prevention has been realized by introduction of prophylactic vaccines that are to prevent transmission of specific high-risk HPVs. Given, however, that these vaccines have no therapeutic efficacy and HPV-associated cervical cancers arise years if not decades after the initial infection, it has been estimated that there will be no measurable decline of HPV-associated tumors before 2040. Cervical cancer alone will be diagnosed in more than 375,000 US women between now and 2040. Other HPV-associated anogenital and head and neck cancers are predicted to afflict another 700,000 men and women over this time period. Hence, therapeutic efforts to combat high-risk HPV-associated disease remain of critical importance.

Interventions for encouraging sexual behaviours intended to prevent cervical cancer

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the key risk factor for cervical cancer. Continuing high rates of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in young people demonstrate the need for effective behavioural interventions.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of behavioural interventions for young women to encourage safer sexual behaviours to prevent transmission of STIs (including HPV) and cervical cancer.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Systematic literature searches were performed on the following databases: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL Issue 4, 2009) Cochrane Gynaecological Cancer Review Group (CGCRG) Specialised Register, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Social Science Citation Index and Trials Register of Promoting Health Interventions (TRoPHI) up to the end of 2009. All references were screened for inclusion against selection criteria.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of behavioural interventions for young women up to the age of 25 years that included, amongst other things, information provision about the transmission and prevention of STIs. Trials had to measure behavioural outcomes (e.g. condom use) and/or biological outcomes (e.g. incidence of STIs, cervical cancer).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

A narrative synthesis was conducted. Meta-analysis was not considered appropriate due to heterogeneity between the interventions and trial populations.

MAIN RESULTS

A total of 5271 references were screened and of these 23 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Most were conducted in the USA and in health-care clinics (e.g. family planning).The majority of interventions provided information about STIs and taught safer sex skills (e.g. communication), occasionally supplemented with provision of resources (e.g. free sexual health services). They were heterogeneous in duration, contact time, provider, behavioural aims and outcomes. A variety of STIs were addressed including HIV and chlamydia. None of the trials explicitly mentioned HPV or cervical cancer prevention.Statistically significant effects for behavioural outcomes (e.g. increasing condom use) were common, though not universal and varied according to the type of outcome. There were no statistically significant effects of abstaining from or reducing sexual activity. There were few statistically significant effects on biological (STI) outcomes. Considerable uncertainty exists in the risk of bias due to incomplete or ambiguous reporting.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Behavioural interventions for young women which aim to promote sexual behaviours protective of STI transmission can be effective, primarily at encouraging condom use. Future evaluations should include a greater focus on HPV and its link to cervical cancer, with long-term follow-up to assess impact on behaviour change, rates of HPV infection and progression to cervical cancer. Studies should use an RCT design where possible with integral process evaluation and cost-effectiveness analysis where appropriate. Given the predominance of USA studies in this systematic review evaluations conducted in other countries would be particularly useful.

Cervical cancer risk factors and feasibility of visual inspection with acetic acid screening in Sudan

Objectives:

To assess the risk factors of cervical cancer and the feasibility and acceptability of a visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) screening method in a primary health center in Khartoum, Sudan.

Methods:

A cross-sectional prospective pilot study of 100 asymptomatic women living in Khartoum State in Sudan was carried out from December 2008 to January 2009. The study was performed at the screening center in Khartoum. Six nurses and two physicians were trained by a gynecologic oncologist. The patients underwent a complete gynecological examination and filled in a questionnaire on risk factors and feasibility and acceptability. They were screened for cervical cancer by application of 3%–5% VIA. Women with a positive test were referred for colposcopy and treatment.

Results:

Sixteen percent of screened women were tested positive. Statistically significant associations were observed between being positive with VIA test and the following variables: uterine cervix laceration (odds ratio [OR] 18.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.64–74.8), assisted vaginal delivery (OR 13.2; 95% CI: 2.95–54.9), parity (OR 5.78; 95% CI: 1.41–23.7), female genital mutilation (OR 4.78; 95% CI: 1.13–20.1), and episiotomy (OR 5.25; 95% CI: 1.15–23.8). All these associations remained statistically significant after adjusting for age, educational level, employment, and potential confounding factors such as smoking, number of sexual partners, and use of contraceptive method. Furthermore, the VIA screening method was found to be feasible and acceptable to participants.

Conclusion:

This pilot study showed that women who have uterine cervix laceration, assisted vaginal delivery, female genital mutilation, or episiotomy are at an increased risk of cervical cancer. It also showed that VIA is a feasible and acceptable cervical cancer screening method in a primary health care setting.

Male circumcision and anatomic sites of penile high-risk human papillomavirus in Rakai, Uganda

Male circumcision (MC) reduces penile high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) on the coronal sulcus and urethra. HR-HPV varies by anatomic site, and it is unknown whether MC decreases HR-HPV on the penile shaft. We assessed the efficacy of MC to reduce HR-HPV on the penile shaft and compared it to known efficacy of MC to reduce HR-HPV on the coronal sulcus. HIV-negative men randomized to receive immediate circumcision (intervention) or circumcision delayed for 24 months (control) were evaluated for HR-HPV at 12 months postenrollment using the Roche HPV Linear Array assay. Among swabs with detectable β-globin or HPV, year 1 HR-HPV prevalence on the coronal sulcus was 21.5% in the intervention arm and 36.3% in the control arm men [adjusted prevalence risk ratios (PRRs) = 0.57, 95% CI 0.39-0.84, p = 0.005]. On the shaft, year 1 HR-HPV prevalence was 15.5% in the intervention and 23.8% in the control arm (adjusted PRR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.39-1.12, p = 0.12). Efficacy of MC to reduce HR-HPV on the shaft was similar to efficacy on the coronal sulcus (p = 0.52). In a sensitivity analysis in which swabs without detectable β-globin or HPV were included as HPV negative, prevalence of HR-HPV on the shaft was lower in the intervention arm (7.8%) than control arm (13.6%; PRR 0.57, 95% CI 0.33-0.99, p < 0.05). HR-HPV was more frequently detected on the coronal sulcus than penile shaft among uncircumcised men (36.3% vs. 23.8%, respectively, p = 0.02) and circumcised men (21.5% vs. 15.5%, respectively, p = 0.24). MC reduced HR-HPV prevalence on both the coronal sulcus and shaft.

Pathology and epidemiology of HPV infection in females

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are a large family of small double-stranded DNA viruses that infect squamous epithelia. It has been established that infection with specific HPV types is a contributing factor to different types of anogenital cancer, including vulval, vaginal, anal, penile, and head and neck cancers. Approximately 4% of all cancers are associated with HPV. HPV infection is the major cause of cervical cancer and genital warts. Genital HPV infections are very common, are sexually transmitted, and have a peak prevalence between ages 18 and 30. Most of these infections clear spontaneously, but in 10-20% of women, these infections remain persistent and are at risk of progression to grade 2/3 cervical intraepithelial neoplasm (CIN) and eventually to invasive cancer of the cervix (ICC). CINs are genetically unstable lesions with a 30-40% risk of progression to ICC. If left untreated, they form a spectrum of increasing cytological atypia, ranging from low-grade CIN1 to high-grade CIN3; the latter are caused almost exclusively by high-risk HPVs, HPV 16 and 18. Infection with HPV requires a microabrasion in the genital epithelium. The oncogenic properties of high-risk HPV reside in the E6 and E7 genes, which if inappropriately expressed in dividing cells deregulate cell division and differentiation. HPV DNA testing has been shown consistently to be superior to cytology in terms of sensitivity and positive predictive value and will become a major tool in cervical cancer screening, at least in the developed countries.

[AIDS Study Group/Spanish AIDS Consensus Plan Document on sexually transmitted infections in HIV-infected patients]

Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are a major public health problem. Considering their high morbidity and potential short and long term after effects, physicians must have enough knowledge on the management of these infections for a correct prevention, diagnosis and treatment. HIV infection is associated with STI, not only because they share route of transmission, but also because they lead to an increased risk of HIV transmission. In this article, we summarise the updated clinical practice guidelines, for the evaluation, management and prevention of STI in HIV-infected patients, from a panel of experts in HIV, dermatologists, proctologic surgeons, and microbiologists on behalf of the Spanish AIDS Study Group (GESIDA) and the National AIDS Plan (PNS).

Incidence and clearance of genital human papillomavirus infection in men (HIM): a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) cause genital warts and cancers in men. The natural history of HPV infection in men is largely unknown, and that information is needed to inform prevention strategies. The goal in this study was to estimate incidence and clearance of type-specific genital HPV infection in men, and to assess the associated factors.

METHODS

Men (aged 18-70 years), residing in Brazil, Mexico, and the USA, who were HIV negative and reported no history of cancer were recruited from the general population, universities, and organised health-care systems. They were assessed every 6 months for a median follow-up of 27·5 months (18·0-31·2). Specimens from the coronal sulcus, glans penis, shaft, and scrotum were obtained for the assessment of the status of HPV genotypes.

FINDINGS

In 1159 men, the incidence of a new genital HPV infection was 38·4 per 1000 person months (95% CI 34·3-43·0). Oncogenic HPV infection was significantly associated with having a high number of lifetime female sexual partners (hazard ratio 2·40, 1·38-4·18, for at least 50 partners vs not more than one partner), and number of male anal-sexual partners (2·57, 1·46-4·49, for at least three male partners vs no recent partners). Median duration of HPV infection was 7·52 months (6·80-8·61) for any HPV and 12·19 months (7·16-18·17) for HPV 16. Clearance of oncogenic HPV infection decreased in men with a high number of lifetime female partners (0·49, 0·31-0·76, for at least 50 female partners vs not more than one partner), and in men in Brazil (0·71, 0·56-0·91) and Mexico (0·73, 0·57-0·94) compared with the USA. Clearance of oncogenic HPV was more rapid with increasing age (1·02, 1·01-1·03).

INTERPRETATION

The data from this study are useful for the development of realistic cost-effectiveness models for male HPV vaccination internationally.

FUNDING

National Cancer Institute.

Effect of circumcision of HIV-negative men on transmission of human papillomavirus to HIV-negative women: a randomised trial in Rakai, Uganda

BACKGROUND

Randomised trials show that male circumcision reduces the prevalence and incidence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in men. We assessed the efficacy of male circumcision to reduce prevalence and incidence of high-risk HPV in female partners of circumcised men.

METHODS

In two parallel but independent randomised controlled trials of male circumcision, we enrolled HIV-negative men and their female partners between 2003 and 2006, in Rakai, Uganda. With a computer-generated random number sequence in blocks of 20, men were assigned to undergo circumcision immediately (intervention) or after 24 months (control). HIV-uninfected female partners (648 of men from the intervention group, and 597 of men in the control group) were simultaneously enrolled and provided interview information and self-collected vaginal swabs at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months. Vaginal swabs were tested for high-risk HPV by Roche HPV Linear Array. Female HPV infection was a secondary endpoint of the trials, assessed as the prevalence of high-risk HPV infection 24 months after intervention and the incidence of new infections during the trial. Analysis was by intention-to-treat. An as-treated analysis was also done to account for study-group crossovers. The trials were registered, numbers NCT00425984 and NCT00124878.

FINDINGS

During the trial, 18 men in the control group underwent circumcision elsewhere, and 31 in the intervention group did not undergo circumcision. At 24-month follow-up, data were available for 544 women in the intervention group and 488 in the control group; 151 (27·8%) women in the intervention group and 189 (38·7%) in the control group had high-risk HPV infection (prevalence risk ratio=0·72, 95% CI 0·60-0·85, p=0·001). During the trial, incidence of high-risk HPV infection in women was lower in the intervention group than in the control group (20·7 infections vs 26·9 infections per 100 person-years; incidence rate ratio=0·77, 0·63-0·93, p=0·008).

INTERPRETATION

Our findings indicate that male circumcision should now be accepted as an efficacious intervention for reducing the prevalence and incidence of HPV infections in female partners. However, protection is only partial; the promotion of safe sex practices is also important.

FUNDING

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and Fogarty International Center.

External genital human papillomavirus prevalence and associated factors among heterosexual men on 5 continents

BACKGROUND

We examined the baseline prevalence of penile, scrotal, and perineal/perianal human papillomavirus (HPV) in heterosexual men (HM). We also evaluated baseline characteristics of HM to assess factors associated with prevalent HPV detection.

METHODS

We tested serum samples from 3463 HM aged 16-24 years with 1-5 lifetime female sexual partners for antibodies to HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18. We collected baseline swab specimens for the detection of DNA of HPV 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, and 59 from 3 areas: penile, scrotal, and perineal/perianal. Risk factors for prevalent HPV DNA detection were evaluated.

RESULTS

The prevalence of any tested HPV type was 18.7% at the penis, 13.1% at the scrotum, 7.9% at the perineal/perianal region, and 21.0% at any site. Having >3 lifetime female sexual partners had the greatest impact on HPV prevalence: odds ratio (OR) 3.2 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.1-4.9) for HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18; and OR 4.5 (95% CI 3.3-6.1) for all HPV types tested. HPV DNA detection was highest in Africa. Neither condom usage nor circumcision was associated with HPV DNA prevalence.

CONCLUSION

Genital-HPV DNA detection is common in young, sexually active HM. We found HPV to be most prevalent in African men and least prevalent in men from the Asia-Pacific region. Increased numbers of sexual partners was an important risk factor for HPV DNA prevalence.

Unresolved questions concerning human papillomavirus infection and transmission: a modelling perspective

Mathematical transmission models are widely used to forecast the potential impact of interventions such as vaccination and to inform the development of health policy. Effective vaccines are now available for the prevention of cervical cancer and other diseases attributable to human papillomavirus (HPV). Considerable uncertainties remain regarding the characterisation of HPV infection and its sequelae, infectivity, and both vaccine-conferred and naturally-acquired immunity. In this review, we discuss the key knowledge gaps that impact on our ability to develop accurate models of HPV transmission and vaccination.

[Clinico-epidemiological aspects associated with penile cancer]

The general objective of this article is to review the current literature regarding the epidemiology, biological behavior and risk factors for penile cancer development, such as HPV infection. Phimosis and chronic irritation related to poor hygiene are commonly associated with penile cancer, whereas neonatal circumcision reduces the relative risk for the disease. There is strong evidence that HPV types 16 and 18 are associated with penile carcinoma in as many as 50% of cases. Patients with penile lesions should undergo physical examination, which is often sufficient to diagnose and to define tumor stagging, as well as contributes to decision-making regarding therapeutical approaches and case management.

Factors affecting transmission of mucosal human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection. The effect of HPV on public health is especially related to the burden of anogenital cancers, most notably cervical cancer. Determinants of exposure to HPV are similar to those for most sexually transmitted infections, but determinants of susceptibility and infectivity are much less well established. Gaps exist in understanding of interactions between HPV, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections. The roles of mucosal immunology, human microbiota at mucosal surfaces, host genetic factors and hormonal concentrations on HPV susceptibility and infectivity are poorly understood, as are the level of effectiveness of some primary or secondary preventive measures other than HPV vaccination (such as condoms, male circumcision, and combination antiretroviral therapy for HIV). Prospective couples studies, studies focusing on mucosal immunology, and in-vitro raft culture studies mimicking HPV infection might increase understanding of the dynamics of HPV transmission.

Epidemiology and natural history of penile cancer

An extensive literature search was performed using the key words squamous cell carcinoma of the penis, phimosis, circumcision, chronic balanitis, cigarette smoking, genital warts and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. All selected studies were classified according to the level of evidence (LE). The final grades of recommendation were assigned after discussion by the full panel of the International Consultation on Penile Cancer in November 2008. The factors positively associated with invasive penile cancers include the presence of phimosis (LE 3a), tobacco smoking (LE 3a-4), chewing tobacco (LE 3a), injury to the penis (LE 3a), balanitis (LE 3a), genital warts (LE 3a), and high-risk HPV infection (LE 3a-4).

Male circumcision: towards a World Health Organisation normative practice in resource limited settings

There is now grade 1 evidence that male circumcision (MC) reduces the risk of a man acquiring HIV. Modelling studies indicate MC could in the next 10 years save up to 2 million lives in those African countries with high HIV prevalence. Several African countries are now scaling up public health MC programmes. The most effective immediate public health MC programmes in Africa will need to target 18-20 years old men. In the longer term there is a need for infant circumcision programmes. In order to implement more widespread MC there is a need to make the surgical procedures as simple as possible so that safe operations can be performed by paramedical staff. The WHO Manual of Male Circumcision under local anaesthetic was written with these objectives in mind. Included in the manual are three adult techniques and four paediatric procedures. The adult procedures are the dorsal slit, the forceps guided and the sleeve resection methods. Paediatric methods included are the plastibell technique, the Mogen and Gomco shield method and a standard surgical dorsal slit procedure. Each method is described in a step by step manner with photographic and line drawing illustrations. In addition to the WHO manual of surgical technique a teaching course has been developed and using this course it has been possible in one week to train a circumcision surgeon who has had no or minimal previous surgical experience. Further scaling will require training of circumcision surgeons, monitoring performance, training the trainer workshops as well as advocacy at national, international and government meetings. In addition to proceeding with standardised methods work is in progress to assess novel techniques in adults such as stay on ring devices and policies are being formulated as to how to assess new devices. Also work is in progress to explore efficiencies in surgical processing by task sharing. Proper informed consent and safety remain paramount and great care has to be taken as programmes in Africa scale up. In continental China where the HIV epidemic is at a much earlier stage there may be a case for considering infant circumcision but great care will be needed to ensure that there is no harm.

Male circumcision, HIV and sexually transmitted infections: a review

Three randomized controlled trials in sub-Saharan Africa have shown that circumcision reduces the risk of acquiring HIV infection in men by approximately 60%. In this paper, we review the evidence that male circumcision protects against infection with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in men and their female partners. Data from the clinical trials indicate that circumcision may be protective against genital ulcer disease, Herpes simplex type 2, Trichomonas vaginalis and human papillomavirus infection in men. No evidence exists of a protective effect against Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhea. There is weak evidence that circumcision has a direct protective effect on HIV infection in women, although there is likely to be an indirect benefit, since HIV prevalence is likely to be lower in circumcised male partners. Although there is little evidence from the trials of serious adverse events from the procedure and of behavioural risk compensation among circumcised men, essential operational research is being conducted to evaluate these key issues outside the trial setting as circumcision services are expanded. Following the publication of the clinical trial results in early 2007, the World Health Organization/UNAIDS has advised that promotion of male circumcision should be included as an additional HIV strategy for the prevention of heterosexually acquired HIV infection in men in areas of high HIV prevalence. As circumcision services are expanded in settings where resources are limited, non-physician providers including nurses will play an important role in the provision of services.

A model for the roll-out of comprehensive adult male circumcision services in African low-income settings of high HIV incidence: the ANRS 12126 Bophelo Pele Project

BACKGROUND

World Health Organization (WHO)/Joint United Nations Programme on AIDS (UNAIDS) has recommended adult male circumcision (AMC) for the prevention of heterosexually acquired HIV infection in men from communities where HIV is hyperendemic and AMC prevalence is low. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of the roll-out of medicalized AMC according to UNAIDS/WHO operational guidelines in a targeted African setting.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

The ANRS 12126 "Bophelo Pele" project was implemented in 2008 in the township of Orange Farm (South Africa). It became functional in 5 mo once local and ethical authorizations were obtained. Project activities involved community mobilization and outreach, as well as communication approaches aimed at both men and women incorporating broader HIV prevention strategies and promoting sexual health. Free medicalized AMC was offered to male residents aged 15 y and over at the project's main center, which had been designed for low-income settings. Through the establishment of an innovative surgical organization, up to 150 AMCs under local anesthesia, with sterilized circumcision disposable kits and electrocautery, could be performed per day by three task-sharing teams of one medical circumciser and five nurses. Community support for the project was high. As of November 2009, 14,011 men had been circumcised, averaging 740 per month in the past 12 mo, and 27.5% of project participants agreed to be tested for HIV. The rate of adverse events, none of which resulted in permanent damage or death, was 1.8%. Most of the men surveyed (92%) rated the services provided positively. An estimated 39.1% of adult uncircumcised male residents have undergone surgery and uptake is steadily increasing.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that a quality AMC roll-out adapted to African low-income settings is feasible and can be implemented quickly and safely according to international guidelines. The project can be a model for the scale-up of comprehensive AMC services, which could be tailored for other rural and urban communities of high HIV prevalence and low AMC rates in Eastern and Southern Africa. Please see later in the article for the Editors' Summary.

Male circumcision for HIV prevention: developments from sub-Saharan Africa

The demonstration of a strong effect of male circumcision on reducing HIV acquisition has provided impetus for this intervention to be adopted more widely in areas of the world where HIV prevalence is high and rates of male circumcision are low. This perspective reviews recent research findings and provides a summary of progress in various countries.

Knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention amongst interns and nursing staff in Tertiary Care Hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan

Background and Objective

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality amongst the gynecological cancers worldwide, especially in developing countries. It is imperative for at least health professionals in developing countries like Pakistan to have a sound knowledge about the disease. This study was carried out to assess the knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention amongst health professionals in tertiary care hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods and Design

A cross-sectional, interview based survey was conducted in June, 2009. Sample of 400 was divided between the three tertiary care centers. Convenience sampling was applied as no definitive data was available regarding the number of registered interns and nurses at each center.

Results

Of all the interviews conducted, 1.8% did not know cervical cancer as a disease. Only 23.3% of the respondents were aware that cervical cancer is the most common cause of gynecological cancers and 26% knew it is second in rank in mortality. Seventy-eight percent were aware that infection is the most common cause of cervical cancer, of these 62% said that virus is the cause and 61% of the respondents knew that the virus is Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Majority recognized that it is sexually transmitted but only a minority (41%) knew that it can be detected by PCR. Only 26% of the study population was aware of one or more risk factors. Thirty seven percent recognized Pap smear as a screening test. In total only 37 out of 400 respondents were aware of the HPV vaccine.

Conclusion

This study serves to highlight that the majority of working health professionals are not adequately equipped with knowledge concerning cervical cancer. Continuing Medical Education program should be started at the hospital level along with conferences to spread knowledge about this disease.

Making the case for circumcision as a public health strategy: opening the dialogue

Hispanics in the United States have lower rates of male circumcision and higher rates of HIV. Although MC has been demonstrated to reduce the risk of acquisition of several sexual transmitted diseases such as HIV, human papilloma virus infection, and herpes simplex virus type 2, MC is only medically reimbursable by insurance for adults or children following recurrent infection, injury, or malformation of the penis. We conducted two studies of attitudes regarding MC among health care providers to Hispanic clients at Miami, Florida STD and Prenatal Clinics. This study presents qualitative data drawn from intensive interviews with 21 providers, including a mohel. Qualitative data was analyzed for dominant themes and collapsed into overarching themes. Thirteen themes emerged; acceptability, appearance, circumcision and children, circumcision and HIV, cost, cultural differences, health benefits, knowledge and personal experiences, pain and injury to the penis, perceived HIV risk, religion, sexual performance, and sexual pleasure. Except for the mohel, Hispanic male providers related MC acceptability to American Pediatric Association guidelines, personal circumcision status, and were skeptical regarding health benefits for sexually transmitted disease (STD)/HIV risk reduction. Female providers focused on the financial burden to parents, lack of information, and low acceptability among Hispanic men. This study illustrates the differing attitudes on circumcision held by providers, and suggests that gender, culture, cost, and providers themselves may limit MC acceptability among Hispanic clients. Results suggest that promotion of MC as an HIV risk reduction strategy must begin with the support of medical practitioners to promote the endorsement of MC as a prevention strategy.

Circumcision of HIV-infected men: effects on high-risk human papillomavirus infections in a randomized trial in Rakai, Uganda

In Rakai, Uganda, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive men were randomized to undergo either immediate circumcision (intervention arm) or delayed circumcision (control arm). Penile swab samples were assayed for high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) by Roche HPV Linear Array at enrollment and at 24 months (intervention arm, 103 subjects; control arm, 107 subjects). Rate ratios (RRs) of HR-HPV were estimated by Poisson regression. At 24 months, HR-HPV prevalence was found in 57 (55.3%) of 103 subjects in the intervention arm and in 77 (71.7%) of 107 subjects in the control arm (RR, 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.62-0.97). Multiple HR-HPV infections were found in 19 (22.4%) of 85 subjects in the intervention arm and in 45 (42.5%) of 106 subjects in the control arm (RR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.33-0.83). New HR-HPV genotypes were acquired by 34 (42.0%) of 81 subjects in the intervention arm and by 53 (57.0%) 85 subjects in the control arm (RR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.54-1.01; P = .06). Multiple new HR-HPV genotypes were acquired by 8 (9.9%) of 81 subjects in the intervention arm and by 23 (24.7%) of 93 subjects in the control arm (RR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.19-0.84; P = .01). Circumcision did not affect the acquisition of single HR-HPV infections (RR, 1.00; 95% CI 0.65-1.53) or clearance of HR-HPV infections (RR, 1.09; 95% CI 0.94-1.27). Circumcision of HIV-positive men reduced the prevalence and incidence of multiple HR-HPV infections.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00124878 .

Male circumcision decreases acquisition and increases clearance of high-risk human papillomavirus in HIV-negative men: a randomized trial in Rakai, Uganda

METHODS

Uncircumcised human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative men aged 15-49 years were randomized to immediate circumcision (intervention arm, 441 subjects) or delayed circumcision (control arm, 399 subjects). Human papillomavirus (HPV) was detected by Roche HPV Linear Array at enrollment, and at 6, 12, and 24 months. Incident high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) was estimated in men who acquired a new HR-HPV genotype. HR-HPV clearance was determined in men with prior genotype-specific HR-HPV infections. Rate ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of HR-HPV acquisition were estimated by Poisson multiple regression.

RESULTS

Enrollment characteristics were comparable between study groups. HR-HPV incidence was 19.7 cases per 100 person-years (PYs) in the intervention arm (70 cases per 355.8 PYs) and 29.4 cases per 100 PYs (125 cases per 424.8 PYs) in the control arm (RR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.51-0.89; P = .006). The incidence of multiple HR-HPV infections was 6.7 cases per 100 PYs in the intervention arm and 14.8 cases per 100 PYs in the control arm (RR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.28-0.73), but there was no significant effect on single infections (RR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.60-1.30). HR-HPV incidence was lower in the intervention arm for all genotypes and demographic/behavioral subgroups. The clearance of preexisting HR-HPV infections was 215.8 cases per 100 PYs (205 cases per 95 PYs) in the intervention arm and 159.1 cases per 100 PYs (255 cases per 160.25 PYs) in the control arm (adjusted RR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.17-1.64).

CONCLUSIONS

Male circumcision reduces the incidence of multiple HR-HPV infections and increases clearance of HR-HPV infections in HIV-uninfected men.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00425984 .

Reduced clearance of penile human papillomavirus infection in uncircumcised men

The relationship between circumcision and the acquisition and clearance of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection was examined in a cohort of 357 men followed up at 2-month intervals for an average of 431 days. There were no differences in HPV acquisition by circumcision status. Clearance of HPV infection, including infection with oncogenic types, was slower in the glans/coronal sulcus of the penis of uncircumcised men than circumcised men. The median duration of HPV infection of the glans/coronal sulcus was significantly longer in uncircumcised men (154 days) than circumcised men (91 days) (P=.04). Circumcision may protect against HPV-associated disease by enhancing the resolution of infection.

Human papillomavirus-related disease in men: not just a women's issue

The most common cause of mortality related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is cervical cancer. However, male HPV infection is also an important concern, both for the disease burden in men and for the risk of transmission to women. HPV is associated with a variety of cancers in men, including anal cancer and a subset of penile and oral cancers. The incidence of anal and oral cancers related to HPV is increasing in the general population and is growing even faster among individuals who are immunocompromised because of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Penile HPV infection is very common among heterosexual men and remains high throughout a wide range of ages. Likewise, anal HPV infection and anal intraepithelial neoplasia are very common throughout a wide range of ages in both HIV-negative and HIV-positive men who have sex with men. Other HPV-related diseases of clinical importance in men include condylomata acuminata (genital warts) and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. The quadrivalent HPV vaccine has been shown to be highly efficacious in the prevention of genital warts in women and precancerous lesions of the cervix, vulva, and vagina. In addition, recent interim data have shown that the quadrivalent HPV vaccine is highly effective in reducing external genital lesions in young men. Although the protective efficacy of HPV vaccination in men has not yet been fully established-pending the outcome of public policy discussions and cost-efficacy studies-there may be a strong rationale for vaccinating boys, similar to girls, at an early age when they have had limited or no prior sexual activity.

Infectious disease: male circumcision for preventing HPV infection

The role of male circumcision in reducing sexually transmitted infections is controversial. A series of recently published papers add to the growing body of evidence that male circumcision might reduce carriage of penile human papillomavirus (HPV).

Prevention strategies against human papillomavirus in males

Sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is very common in men and women. Oncogenic HPV is strongly associated with cancers and high-grade dysplasias of the anogenital tract, including the anus, penis, and also a proportion of oropharyngeal cancers. In reducing male disease burden, some consider screening and treatment for high-grade anal dysplasia (AIN) to prevent anal cancer in high-risk populations. Such strategies have wide implications for the workforce, and require more evidence for the optimal management of AIN. Male sexual behavior, with consequent HPV infection and disease contribute to considerable disease burden in females. Hence, inclusion of males in prophylactic HPV vaccination programs should prevent HPV-related disease in males as well as substantially reducing disease burden in females. Clinical trial data in males 16-26 years for the quadrivalent vaccine show it is well tolerated, induces a strong type-specific immunological response comparable to that of females, and reduced vaccine HPV-type-related genital infection, as well as disease. Cost-benefit analyses and mathematical modeling show that the most cost-effective strategy involves routine administration of this vaccine to 12-year-old females, with catch-up vaccination of 12- to 24-year-olds, with the most effective strategy in disease reduction including men and/or boys in the program. Such a vaccination strategy including 12-year-old boys is projected by 2050 to reduce HPV 16 infection by 88-94% in females and 68-82% in males, plus the aforementioned male HPV- related cancers by 22-27%. Therefore, inclusion of males in an HPV vaccination program is likely to have significant health and economic benefits over and above those observed from current female-only programs. However, comprehensive cost-benefit analyses are needed to determine the efficacy of these programs in the overall population. Such analyses will be crucial for the design, acceptance, and implementation of these vaccination programs into clinical practice globally.

Epidemiology and pathology of HPV disease in males

It is currently recognized that besides the significant impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in females, HPV causes substantial disease in men as well. Genital warts are a common manifestation of male infection with HPV. Genital warts are highly infectious and approximately 65% of people who have sex with an infected partner will develop warts themselves. More than 90% of genital warts are caused by non-oncogenic HPV types 6 and 11. In addition, recurrent respiratory papillomatosis is a rare disease most often associated with HPV types 6 and 11. Several cancers of the anogenital tract and upper aero-digestive tract, and their precursor lesions in men are now understood to be caused by infection with sexually transmitted HPV. For example, there is increasing incidence of anal cancer in western countries; however, there are limited data on its primary cause, anal canal HPV infection. Genital HPV infection is very common in men with an ongoing international study estimating a prevalence of 65.2% in asymptomatic males aged 18-70 years. Lifetime number of sexual partners was the most significant risk factor for the acquisition of HPV infection (P<0.05), and circumcision has been associated with reduced detection of HPV infection in men. HPV infections may be less likely to persist in men than in women. In men, the median time to clearance of any HPV infection was 5.9 months, with 75% of infections clearing within 12 months. More data are needed to better understand the natural history of HPV infection. Although the quadrivalent HPV vaccine has been shown to be effective and safe in men, low awareness of HPV in males may be a barrier to its use for the prevention of HPV infection.

Updated parental viewpoints on male neonatal circumcision in the United States

Through a questionnaire, the authors sought to elicit information about initial attitudes concerning circumcision after reading a summary of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Policy Statement and, again, after reading a description of recent HIV/HPV studies. Predictors of increased support for circumcision included having a prior circumcised boy and being US born. Predictors of decreased support included being of Hispanic ethnicity and believing that the uncircumcised penis was more culturally normal. After reading the AAP statement, 86% of respondents remained favorable of elective circumcision, whereas 13% viewed it less favorably. After reading the passage about the HIV/HPV studies, the majority maintained their initial level of support. Certain characteristics were associated with an individual's desire to perform circumcision on his/her infant. Despite a slight decrease in support to perform circumcision after reading the AAP policy summary, respondents' initial attitudes toward circumcision were unchanged after subsequent review of recent HIV/HPV research.

Male circumcision for the prevention of acquisition and transmission of sexually transmitted infections: the case for neonatal circumcision

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) male circumcision policy states that while there are potential medical benefits of newborn male circumcision, the data are insufficient to recommend routine neonatal circumcision. Since 2005, however, 3 randomized trials have evaluated male circumcision for prevention of sexually transmitted infections. The trials found that circumcision decreases human immunodeficiency virus acquisition by 53% to 60%, herpes simplex virus type 2 acquisition by 28% to 34%, and human papillomavirus prevalence by 32% to 35% in men. Among female partners of circumcised men, bacterial vaginosis was reduced by 40%, and Trichomonas vaginalis infection was reduced by 48%. Genital ulcer disease was also reduced among males and their female partners. These findings are also supported by observational studies conducted in the United States. The AAP policy has a major impact on neonatal circumcision in the United States. This review evaluates the recent data that support revision of the AAP policy to fully reflect the evidence of long-term health benefits of male circumcision.

Influence of partner's infection status on prevalent human papillomavirus among persons with a new sex partner

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the influence of the partner's human papillomavirus (HPV) status and sexual practices on prevalent HPV infection among new couples to study HPV transmission.

METHODS

Women attending university or college in Montreal, Canada, and their male partners (N = 263 couples) were enrolled in 2005-2008. HPV typing was done in self-collected vaginal swabs and clinician-collected penis and scrotum swabs. The outcome measures were overall and type-specific HPV prevalence.

RESULTS

HPV was detected in 56% of women and men. Prevalence was higher among persons with infected partners (85%) than in those whose partners were negative (19%). Type-specific detection was substantially higher among women (OR = 55.2, 95% CI: 38.0-80.1) and men (OR = 58.7, 95% CI: 39.8-86.3) if their partner harbored the type under consideration. Prevalence among women and men with 10 or more lifetime partners was 15.4 (95% CI: 5.9-40.2) and 9.5 (95% CI: 4.4-19.8) times higher than among those with 1 partner. Frequent condom use was protective in men, particularly if his partner was HPV-infected (OR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.50-0.82). This effect was attenuated among women with an infected partner (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.69-1.11).

CONCLUSIONS

The current partner's status was the most important risk factor for prevalent HPV infection. Condoms exerted a stronger protective effect among men than among women.

Human papillomavirus infections among couples in new sexual relationships

BACKGROUND

No studies have examined human papillomavirus (HPV) infections among couples early in their sexual relationships when transmission is most likely. Our objective was to describe the distribution of HPV infections among recently formed couples, using the partnership as the unit of analysis.

METHODS

Women aged 18-24 years attending a university or junior college in Montreal enrolled in a longitudinal study with their new male partners. Self-collected vaginal swabs and clinician-collected swabs from the penis and scrotum were tested for 36 HPV genotypes. Participants self-reported sexual behavior in computerized questionnaires. We analyzed patterns of genital HPV infection in 263 couples using data obtained at enrollment.

RESULTS

Couples had engaged in vaginal sex for a median of 3.9 months. HPV was detected in 64% (169/263) of couples. In 41% (109/263), both partners harbored the same HPV type-nearly 4 times more than expected if HPV status of partners were uncorrelated. There were 583 type-specific HPV infections among 169 couples for whom at least one partner was infected. Of these, 42% were of the same type for both partners (95% confidence interval = 36%-47%). This rose from 25% among those engaging in vaginal sex for less than 2 months to 68% among those at 5 to 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Although HPV is common, detection of the same type in persons initiating a sex relationship would be rare given type-specific prevalence rates. The high degree of concordance we found suggests a high probability of transmission.