Health experts are sounding the alarm over the increasing incidence of throat cancer, suggesting a strong connection to human papillomavirus (HPV) and oral sex practices.
UK radio presenter Jamie Theakston recently disclosed his stage one laryngeal cancer diagnosis after listeners noticed a change in his voice, prompting him to take a break from his role on Heart Radio.
Dr. Hisham Mehanna from the University of Birmingham stated that approximately 70% of throat cancer cases are linked to HPV. He emphasized that having multiple oral sex partners can elevate the risk of developing throat cancer by up to nine times. While smoking and alcohol consumption have long been recognized as risk factors, emerging research highlights HPV’s significant role in this increase.
In his article for The Conversation, Dr. Mehanna described the rapid rise of throat cancer cases in the West as reaching epidemic levels. Studies indicate that about 80% of people will carry HPV at some point, with around one-third infected at any given time. Although HPV is typically seen as harmless and often goes unaddressed by the immune system, it can lead to serious health issues, including various cancers, when it invades body tissues.
Among the more than 150 HPV types, approximately 12 are known to be cancer-causing, with HPV strains 16 and 18 being the most prevalent in cases of oropharyngeal cancer. The UK and US are currently experiencing a “throat cancer epidemic,” with around 12,800 new cases annually in the UK and approximately 71,100 in the US. Since the early 1990s, head and neck cancer rates in the UK have surged by over a third, according to Cancer Research UK.
Laryngeal cancer, which impacts the voice box, is particularly common in men, who are four times more likely to be diagnosed, typically in their 60s. Symptoms include a hoarse voice lasting more than three weeks, difficulty swallowing, neck lumps, persistent cough, and other related issues. Early detection is crucial, with survival rates around 65% five years post-diagnosis.
Theakston’s co-star, Amanda Holden, provided an update on his health, indicating a positive outlook following his early-stage diagnosis. Professor Peter Johnson, NHS England’s national clinical director for cancer, stressed the importance of early detection and public awareness regarding cancer symptoms.
HPV vaccines, available to 12- and 13-year-olds in the UK and US, are effective in reducing rates of head and neck cancers. Despite the progress made, experts urge greater public education about the link between oral sex and HPV-related cancers. Research indicates that a significant majority of adults engage in oral sex, underscoring the need for heightened awareness.
In related news, Hollywood actor Michael Douglas previously revealed that his mouth cancer diagnosis was likely linked to performing oral sex. He has since been successfully treated and remains cancer-free.
The HPV vaccine, which is more than 80% effective, consists of two doses for children aged 11 to 12, with a three-dose option available for those aged 15 to 26 who missed the initial window. The vaccine has been instrumental not only in preventing cervical cancer but also in reducing rates of head and neck cancers significantly.
