Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and HPV Type Distribution in Penile Samples in Young Men in Denmark: Results 10 Years After Implementation of a Girls-Only HPV Vaccination Program

Abstract

Abstract Background In Denmark, a girls-only human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program was initiated in 2008–2009. The study aim was to assess the HPV prevalence and type distribution in younger men prior to HPV vaccination in men. Methods The study population was younger men who attended information days regarding military service. At random days (2019–2020), 280 men were included. We collected questionnaire data regarding risk factors for HPV infection and a penile swab for HPV testing. We compared results in this study with those from a previous study of young men (2006–2007). Results The majority of participants (94%) were 18–20 years old. The median number of lifetime sexual partners was 4. Altogether, 130 men (46.4%) were HPV positive. No infections with HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, and 45 were detected. The most frequent type was HPV-51 (detected in 11.1%). Comparison showed that the odds of high-risk HPV type infection were higher in 2019–2020 (prevalence odds ratio [POR], 1.7 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.1–2.7]) compared with 2006–2007. In contrast, the odds were lower (POR, 0.3 [95% CI, .1–.6]) for HPV types targeted by the 9-valent HPV vaccine. Conclusions The multicohort girls-only vaccination program has to a large degree protected young men against the HPV types included in the licensed vaccines. This does not speak against gender-neutral vaccination as the HPV prevalence is still high, although consisting largely of less carcinogenic HPV types.