Let’s begin with a simple truth: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is not rare. It is not shameful. It is, in fact, one of the most common viral infections on the planet—so widespread that nearly every sexually active person will encounter at least one strain during their lifetime. Most will never know they had it.
Yet despite its prevalence, HPV remains shrouded in misunderstanding—particularly when it comes to men. Conversations often center on cervical cancer and women’s health (rightfully so), but this focus creates a critical blind spot: HPV affects everyone.
