Why Men in Malaysia Should Get the Gardasil 9 HPV Vaccine: Benefits & Cancer Prevention
- EvergreenMedicalClinic
- 3 hours ago
- 4 min read
HPV Isn't Just a Women's Health Issue
When people hear about Human Papillomavirus (HPV), they often associate it with cervical cancer in women. However, HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide and can affect both men and women.
Many Malaysian men are unaware that HPV can cause genital warts and increase the risk of several cancers, including penile cancer, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancer.
The good news? These HPV-related diseases can often be prevented through vaccination with Gardasil 9.
HPV is responsible for:
95% cervical cancer cases
>90% of invasive anal cancer cases
>90% genital warts (1)
With higher prevalence among Malaysian male (2).
What Is Gardasil 9?
Gardasil 9 is an HPV vaccine designed to protect against nine HPV types that are responsible for the majority of HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
The vaccine helps protect against:
Genital warts
Penile cancer
Anal cancer
Throat cancer (oropharyngeal cancer)
Other HPV-related diseases
By receiving the HPV vaccine before exposure to the virus, men can significantly reduce their risk of developing HPV-related complications later in life.
Why Should Men Get the HPV Vaccine?
1. HPV Infection Is Extremely Common
Most sexually active individuals will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives. Many infections occur without symptoms, meaning a person can carry and transmit the virus without knowing it.
2. HPV Can Cause Cancer in Men
Certain high-risk HPV strains are linked to:
Penile cancer
Anal cancer
Head and neck cancers
Throat cancer
Cases of HPV-related throat cancers have been increasing globally, particularly among men.
3. Protection for Yourself and Your Partner
Vaccination not only helps protect your own health but may also reduce the spread of HPV to future partners.
4. Prevention Is Better Than Treatment
There is currently no cure for HPV infection itself. While treatments exist for genital warts and HPV-related diseases, preventing infection through vaccination remains the most effective strategy.
Who Should Get Gardasil 9?
HPV vaccination is recommended for:
Teenagers and Young Adults
The vaccine works best when given before exposure to HPV. Vaccination during adolescence provides the strongest preventive benefit.
Men Up to Age 45
Yes, if they are already sexually active.
Men at Higher Risk
Individuals with multiple sexual partners or those seeking additional protection against HPV-related diseases may benefit from discussing vaccination with their healthcare provider.
Is Gardasil 9 Safe?
Gardasil 9 has been extensively studied and is used worldwide. Common side effects are generally mild and may include:
Pain at the injection site
Redness or swelling
Mild fever
Headache
Fatigue
Serious side effects are rare.
Common Questions About Gardasil 9 for Men
Can men get HPV?
Yes. HPV affects both men and women and is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally.
Can Gardasil 9 prevent cancer?
Gardasil 9 helps protect against HPV types associated with several cancers, including anal, penile, and throat cancers.
Am I too old for the HPV vaccine?
Many adults may still benefit from vaccination. A consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine whether Gardasil 9 is suitable for you.
Do I need the vaccine if I am already sexually active?
Yes. Even if you are sexually active, you may still gain protection against HPV types you have not yet encountered.
Recommended Gardasil 9 Dosing Schedule
The number of doses required depends on the age at which vaccination is started.
Boys Aged 9 to 14 Years
2-Dose Schedule
First dose: Day 0
Second dose: 6–12 months after the first dose
This age group typically develops a strong immune response, allowing protection with just two doses.
Males Aged 15 to 45 Years
3-Dose Schedule
First dose: Day 0
Second dose: 2 months after the first dose
Third dose: 6 months after the first dose
Completing all recommended doses is important to achieve optimal and long-lasting protection against HPV-related diseases.
Is It Too Late to Get Vaccinated as an Adult?
Not necessarily. Even if you are sexually active or have had previous partners, you may not have been exposed to all nine HPV types covered by Gardasil 9.
Many men between the ages of 15 and 45 choose to receive HPV vaccination to help reduce their future risk of:
Genital warts
Anal cancer
Penile cancer
HPV-related throat cancers
Transmission of HPV to partners
A consultation with your healthcare provider can help determine whether Gardasil 9 is suitable for your individual circumstances.
Why Earlier Vaccination Is Better
Research has shown that HPV vaccination provides the greatest benefit when administered before exposure to HPV. Vaccinating at a younger age allows the immune system to build protection before future risk of infection.
However, protection against HPV-related diseases remains valuable for many adults who have not yet been vaccinated.
Take Charge of Your Health Today
HPV-related diseases can affect men of all ages, yet many cases may be preventable through vaccination.
If you are considering HPV vaccination, speak with a healthcare professional about whether Gardasil 9 is right for you.
At Evergreen Medical Clinics, our healthcare team can provide personalised advice on HPV vaccination, Gardasil 9 eligibility, and preventive healthcare options.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take a proactive step towards protecting your long-term health.
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Get in Touch With Us
Contact: +6018-9698786
Address: Ground Floor, 15, Jalan 19/29, Seksyen 19, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
References:
Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Genital HPV Infection. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/sti/about/about-genital-hpv-infection.html
Khoo SP et al. Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of oro-anogenital human papillomavirus (HPV) carriage in a cross-sectional, multiethnic community-based Asian male population.
Keywords
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