3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – A Stealthy Instigator of Throat Cancer
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses, some of which can cause cancer of the oropharynx (the middle part of the throat, including the soft palate, the base of the tongue, and the tonsils). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, and HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is often diagnosed in younger people and men.
HPV is spread through direct contact with an infected person. This contact can occur through any form of close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Certain types of HPV, particularly HPV 16, are strongly linked to throat cancer. These high-risk HPVs can cause cells to grow abnormally, leading to the development of cancer over time.
Understanding the link between HPV and throat cancer is particularly important because HPV-related throat cancers are often diagnosed at a younger age than most other types of throat cancers. Interestingly, HPV-related throat cancers are often more responsive to treatment and have better outcomes than other types of throat cancer.
However, it’s critical to note that not everyone who has HPV will develop throat cancer. Most people’s immune systems can control or even eliminate HPV infections.
In fact, many people with HPV don’t even know they have it because they never develop symptoms or health problems from it. But in some cases, the virus persists and eventually causes cancer.
Prevention is key when it comes to HPV. Vaccines are available that can protect against the types of HPV most likely to cause throat cancer. Safe sexual practices can also reduce the risk of HPV transmission. (3)
