Students at Moorpark College have access to the human papillomavirus vaccine through the Student Health Center. Although men aren’t directly affected by cervical cancer, they are at risk for genital warts along with other areas of the male body that could be affected by the virus.

“It is important for males to get vaccinated,” said Moorpark College Health Educator Allison Barton. “They can certainly spread the virus to their partners.”

This past year, actor Michael Douglas revealed that he had throat cancer which was directly linked to HPV as a result of oral sex. The oral cancers linked to the virus occur at the base of the tongue or tonsils. The HPV vaccine could have prevented this type of cancer.

“I had no idea that guys needed to be concerned about this, I thought the vaccine was only related to girls,” said 23-year-old former Moorpark College student Patrick O’Neil. “I will definitely pass the information to my friends.”

HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is so common among men and women that if they are sexually active, they have a higher chance of being exposed to the virus at some point in their life. In most cases the virus goes away as easily as it came. However, some forms of HPV cause health related problems such as genital warts and a variety of cancers. The vaccine is intended to target the HPV forms that most frequently cause these conditions along with related health issues.

The HPV vaccine became available in 2006 and is now usually administered to children. If the vaccine has not been given, it is recommended for women up to the age of 26 and men until 21 years of age. However, if a man is in a same-sex relationship, the vaccine can be received up to the age of 26.

“Moorpark College Student Health Center participates in many activities that keep us healthy and ward off illness and chronic illness such as eating right, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising,” said Coordinator Sharon Manakas. “Vaccines are another means of keeping us healthy and preventing disease.”

Whether students have been vaccinated for HPV or are considering it, the Moorpark College Student Health Center is available to assist students with their medical needs and questions.

For more
information on the Health Center, visit: http://www.moorparkcollege.edu/departments/student-services/health-center