2023-11-11 07:07:21
The European Head and Neck Society (EHNS) has issued a warning about the increase in cases of mouth and throat cancer caused by human papilloma viruses (HPV). According to the EHNS, an estimated 45,000 new cases of head and neck tumors are caused by HPV every year, with the viruses often transmitted through oral sex.
While smoking has long been associated with mouth and throat cancer, the EHNS is now highlighting the connection between oral sex and HPV-related head and neck tumors. The organization warns that HPV-related head and neck tumors are on the rise worldwide, with an estimated 45,000 new cases per year. The sexually transmitted viruses cause cancer in the genital area, as well as cancer of the base of the tongue or tonsils.
According to the German Cancer Research Center, every second case of throat cancer is now caused by HPV, making it a leading cause of throat cancer alongside tobacco and alcohol consumption. British cancer and genomic researcher Hisham Mehanna has also highlighted the link between oral sex with multiple partners and an increased risk of throat cancer. The cancer can occur years or decades after the initial infection, leading to a drastic increase in cases in the USA and Great Britain in the last 20 years.
Around 14,000 people in Germany are diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer every year, with at least 750 of these cases being HPV-related. The risk group primarily includes people with multiple sexual partners, with men being more commonly affected by HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer than women.
The German Cancer Society (DKG) has emphasized the importance of vaccination as a means of protection against HPV-related cancer. The vaccine, which offers almost 100% protection against high-risk types of HPV, is recommended for girls and boys aged nine to 14, and is also available for adults. Getting vaccinated not only protects against genital warts but also reduces the risk of developing infection-related throat cancer.
The EHNS has also provided a list of signs to watch out for, including non-healing wounds on the tongue, persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes.
Ultimately, the EHNS is urging the public to be aware of the risks of HPV-related throat cancer and to take steps to protect themselves through vaccination and regular check-ups.]
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