Methods:Two hundred MSM aged 16 to 20 were recruited via community and other sources. Men were tested for HPV DNA from the anal canal and penis, and completed a questionnaire.
Findings: Median age was 19. Men reported a median duration of 1·9 years since first receptive anal sex and a median of 4 receptive anal sex partners. The proportion of men with anal HPV of any type increased from 10·0% in men reporting no prior receptive anal sex to 47·3% in men reporting ≥4 receptive anal sex partners (p-trend<0·001). The proportion with anal HPV type 16 also increased significantly with increasing receptive anal sex partners (p trend=0·044). The proportion of men with penile HPV increased from 3·7% in men reporting no prior insertive anal sex to 14·8% in men reporting ≥4 insertive anal sex partners (p-trend=0·014). Overall, 39·0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 32·2-46·1%) of men had at least one HPV DNA type detected: 23·0% (95% CI: 17·4-29·5%) with a quadrivalent HPV vaccine preventable type (6, 11, 16 or 18).
Conclusion: These data suggest early and high per partner transmission of HPV among MSM soon after their first sexual experiences. HPV vaccination needs to commence early for maximal prevention of HPV among MSM.