The Hidden Link Between STIs and Male Cancers: What Every Man Should Know | Health and Fitness News

Last Updated:June 29, 2025, 12:21 IST

Emerging evidence suggests a potential connection between chronic STIs and an elevated risk of male cancers, particularly prostate, penile, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

When we talk about cancer prevention in men, topics like smoking cessation, diet, and exercise tend to dominate the conversation. However, an often-overlooked factor in male cancer risk is sexual health, specifically, the role that sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may play in the development of certain cancers.

Emerging evidence increasingly suggests a potential connection between chronic STIs and an elevated risk of male cancers, particularly prostate, penile, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.

“A large-scale prospective study highlighted that infections such as Chlamydia trachomatis may slightly increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer,” says Dr. Jaspreet S. Sandhu, MD, Urologic Surgeon, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. “Although the association is not yet fully conclusive, it draws attention to the broader impact of persistent inflammation caused by STIs on prostate health.”

According to Dr. Sandhu, chronic infections can lead to cellular damage and ongoing immune responses. Over time, this inflammation may create an environment that promotes cancer development. Certain men—such as those who are uncircumcised—may be at even higher risk for these chronic infections, emphasizing the need for personalized, proactive health care strategies.

This isn’t limited to prostate cancer alone. In fact, some STIs have a far more direct and well-established role in causing cancer.

“Many people are unaware that certain sexually transmitted infections can directly increase a man’s risk of developing certain types of cancer,” explains Dr. Winston Wong, MD, Head and Neck Medical Oncologist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. “Human papillomavirus (HPV), for instance, is a leading cause of penile, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers in men.”

HPV is not a new virus, but it remains under-addressed in the context of men’s health. The virus can linger in the body for years without symptoms, all the while damaging cells and increasing cancer risk. “Vaccinating boys against HPV is critical,” adds Dr. Wong. “It’s not just a women’s health issue. The HPV vaccine can prevent many of the cancers caused by high-risk virus strains, offering a safe and effective form of cancer prevention.”

Chronic infections such as hepatitis B and C also present a cancer risk particularly for liver cancer by silently harming the liver over time.

Given these findings, both experts advocate for a more holistic and integrated approach to men’s health, one that includes regular STI screenings, safer sexual practices, and vaccination where applicable.

“This growing body of evidence calls for a careful evaluation of sexual health history as part of cancer risk assessments,” notes Dr. Sandhu. “Preventive strategies like regular screenings and HPV vaccination are not just about infection control—they may be early interventions in reducing long-term cancer risk.”

“Early education and safe sexual practices are crucial,” adds Dr. Wong. “Recognizing and addressing this link between STIs and cancer is vital to men’s long-term health and wellbeing.”

As awareness grows, so too must our public health strategies. Sexual health isn’t just a matter of preventing infections, it’s an essential component of cancer prevention and overall longevity in men.

Swati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More

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