OBJECTIVES: HPV (human papillomavirus) is primarily sexually transmitted and cause cancer and premalignant lesions in both men and women. HPV is responsible for a substantial burden of disease in the population. Currently there is a lack of data regarding epidemiology and health care resource utilization (HCRU) of HPV-associated cancer and diseases in Costa Rica, especially among men. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological characteristics of patients with HPV-associated cancer and diseases in men and the HCRU.

METHODS: This was a hybrid study including primary data (Delphi Panel) and retrospective review of structured secondary data (database from Costa Rican social security system: Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, CCSS) from Sept 2023 to Nov 2023. HCRU were estimated through the Delphi Panel.

RESULTS: 1,340 participants were included. The mean age was 63.6 years (CI 95% 62.83-64.35). Rectal cancer accounted for 48% (649) of cases; followed by head and neck 44% (549) which is subdivided into oral cavity (10%), oropharynx (11%) and larynx (20%); and finally, penile 11% (142). The cumulative rate of HPV-associated cancer in men per 100,000 population increased from 8.6 in 2012 to 55.5 in 2016. Diagnostic testing for HPV was never/sometimes applied (80%) within the practice of 4/5 physicians. One out of five physicians mentioned that they Regularly/Always provided routine diagnostic testing for HPV. 4/5 physicians described never/sometimes having a patient with HPV hospitalized for more than 24 hours. The number of participants in the Delphi panel is the main limitation of the study. The median number of days of hospitalization was 7.

CONCLUSIONS: HPV continues to be an emerging issue in public policy debates, cases of this disease has been increasing and consequently the clinical and economic burden of the disease has an impact on populations. Strategies to prevent HPV infections and associated diseases in men should be promoted.