In recent years the rise of HPV-related throat cancer has become a major health problem. Oropharyngeal cancer, which affects areas such as the back of the throat, tonsils and base of the tongue, is now increasingly linked to Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection. Oral sex has emerged as a primary risk factor for contracting HPV in the throat.
In this blog, we explore the link between oral sex and throat cancer, common symptoms to look out for, and effective strategies to protect yourself from HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers.
What is oropharyngeal cancer?
Oropharyngeal cancer develops in the middle part of the throat, including the tonsils, base of the tongue, and soft palate. Historically, this type of cancer was most often associated with tobacco and alcohol use. However, a significant shift has occurred, with HPV now being the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPV infection is now the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer in the United States. Additional research has found that the number of HPV-related throat cancers has increased so dramatically that they have surpassed cervical cancer as the most common HPV-related cancer. This increase is especially noticeable among younger adults who do not fall into traditional risk categories, such as smokers or heavy drinkers. These trends highlight the critical need for awareness about HPV transmission and its potential long-term consequences.
How HPV and oral sex are linked to throat cancer
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with millions of new cases every year. Although most HPV infections clear up without symptoms or complications, certain high-risk strains, such as HPV-16, can cause cellular changes that lead to cancer over time.
Oral sex is a major form of HPV transmission. The virus can infect the throat without showing immediate symptoms, making it easy for individuals to unknowingly pass it on to their partners. Studies suggest that individuals with a greater number of oral sex partners are more likely to contract oral HPV, which is closely linked to oropharyngeal cancers.
This is evident from research by Johns Hopkins MedicineAbout 70 percent of oropharyngeal cancers in the US are now linked to HPV infection in the throat. This statistic highlights the importance of prevention strategies, as many of these infections – and the cancers they cause – can be avoided with proper care and precautions.
Risk factors for HPV-related throat cancer
Certain factors increase the chance of developing HPV-related throat cancer, including:
- Number of oral sex partners: A greater number of lifetime oral sex partners correlates with a higher risk of HPV exposure and throat infection.
- High-risk HPV strains: HPV-16, one of the most aggressive strains, has been especially linked to oropharyngeal cancers.
- Gender and age: Men are more likely than women to develop HPV-related throat cancer, and the risk increases as people get older.
- Lifestyle choices: Smoking and heavy alcohol use weaken the immune system, making it harder to clear HPV infections and increasing the chance of developing cancer.
These risk factors emphasize the importance of maintaining healthy habits and being proactive about safe sex practices and screenings to minimize the risk of HPV-related complications.
Common symptoms of HPV-related throat cancer
One of the challenges of HPV-related throat cancer is its subtle onset. Early symptoms can be mild and easily overlooked, making early detection difficult. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing or feeling like food is stuck
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- A lump in the neck or throat
- Persistent earache or a persistent cough
Although several non-cancerous conditions can cause these symptoms, they require medical attention if they persist for more than two weeks. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of treatment and long-term results.
Tips to Lower Your Risk and Prevent Oral HPV
The risks associated with HPV and throat cancer are serious, but there are effective ways to protect yourself:
- HPV vaccination: The HPV vaccine effectively prevents the high-risk strains of HPV that lead to cancer. The CDC recommends vaccination for young teenagers and catch-up vaccinations for adults up to 26 years of age. Adults over age 26 should talk to their healthcare provider to see if prevention with the HPV vaccine will benefit them.
- Practice safe sex: Reduce the risk of HPV transmission by using barrier methods such as condoms or dental dams during oral sex.
- Regular health examinations: Routine checkups with your healthcare provider can help detect HPV infections early. Likewise, regular dental exams can identify abnormalities in the throat or mouth.
- Healthy lifestyle choices: Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption can strengthen your immune system, improve its ability to fight HPV infections and reduce your overall risk of developing cancer.
- Inform yourself and your partners: Open, honest conversations about sexual health and prevention can help reduce the spread of HPV. Share information about the benefits of vaccination and safe sex practices with partners.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of oral HPV infection and complications, while taking control of your overall sexual health.
Protecting your health: awareness and prevention are key
The prevalence of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is increasing, making awareness and prevention more important than ever. By understanding the risks of oral sex and taking proactive steps such as vaccination and safe sex, you can significantly reduce the chance of infection.
At Priority STD Testing, we strive to provide the resources and testing options you need to stay informed and protect your health. Regular testing for HPV can help keep you and your partners safe and healthy.
Check out our available testing options to learn more and take charge of your sexual health today.