Taiwan urges HPV vaccination as male oropharyngeal cancer rates surpass cervical cancer

Health officials in Taiwan warn that the incidence of HPV‑related oral and oropharyngeal cancers among men has risen sharply, now exceeding cervical cancer rates in women. Recent cancer‑registry data show that about 30% of Taiwanese male oral‑cavity cancers are linked to persistent HPV infection, and the lack of a national screening program leaves men vulnerable.

The World Health Organization estimates that one‑third of men over age 15 have been infected with HPV, and one‑in‑five face a high‑risk cancer‑causing strain. Dr. Chen Hong‑Long of Star‑Dragon ENT Clinic emphasizes that, unlike women who often clear the virus naturally, men have a weaker immune response, allowing the virus to linger in the throat for years before potentially developing into cancer.

Officials recommend the nine‑valent HPV vaccine for males as the primary preventive measure, citing studies showing a substantial reduction in HPV‑related cancers among vaccinated men. The campaign coincides with World Head and Neck Cancer Day (July 27) and calls for broader public awareness and vaccine uptake across all ages and genders.