I Have HPV β Does That Put Me at Risk for Throat Cancer?
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a common virus that can be linked to throat cancer. Here is what you need to understand.
Yes, certain types of HPV β particularly HPV type 16 β are a known cause of throat cancer, specifically oropharyngeal cancer (cancer of the tonsils and base of tongue). However, the full picture is more reassuring than many people realize.
- Key facts:
- Most people clear HPV infections on their own β 80-90% of HPV infections resolve spontaneously within 1β2 years without causing any health problems
- Only about 1% of people with oral HPV develop HPV-related throat cancer
- HPV-positive throat cancer has a much better prognosis β it responds better to treatment than HPV-negative throat cancer
- The HPV vaccine prevents HPV types that cause cancer β the vaccine covers HPV 16 and 18, which cause most HPV-related cancers
It can take years or decades between initial infection and cancer development. Most people diagnosed with HPV-positive throat cancer are in their 40sβ60s.
What To Watch For
- HPV-related throat cancer can present with:
- A persistent sore throat (especially on one side)
- A lump in the neck (often the first sign)
- Ear pain on one side
- Difficulty swallowing
- A visible sore on the tonsil or base of tongue
- Unexplained weight loss
What You Can Do
- The HPV vaccine is highly effective β if you or your children have not been vaccinated, talk to a doctor
- Practice safe sex β using condoms and limiting partners reduces HPV transmission
- Quit smoking β tobacco and HPV together are much worse than either alone
- Get regular checkups β tell your dentist and doctor about your HPV history
- See an ENT doctor for any persistent throat symptoms
When to See a Doctor
- See an ENT doctor if:
- You have a sore throat on one side that lasts more than 2β3 weeks
- You find a lump in your neck
- You have ear pain on one side
- You have trouble swallowing
- You see a visible sore or white patch on your tonsil