Throat Cancer on the Rise: Health Experts Warn of HPV-Linked Cases
In a shocking revelation, UK radio presenter Jamie Theakston, 53, has been diagnosed with stage one laryngeal cancer. The news comes as health experts warn that oral sex could be fuelling the rising number of throat cancer cases.
According to Dr. Hisham Mehanna from the University of Birmingham, around 70 per cent of throat cancer cases are caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Moreover, multiple oral sex partners can increase the risk of throat cancer up to ninefold.
The connection between oral sex and HPV-related cancers is a significant concern. Research shows that the majority of people will carry HPV on their body at some point, and around a third of the population is infected at any given time. While the virus usually causes no problems, it can invade body tissues and trigger cell changes that lead to cancer.
The UK and US are both experiencing a "throat cancer epidemic," with over 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 more than a third.
Laryngeal cancer, which affects the voice box, is four times more common in men and often diagnosed in those in their 60s. Early detection can improve outcomes significantly, with survival rates around 65 per cent for five years after diagnosis.
The good news is that there is a vaccine for HPV, which is more than 80 per cent effective. The vaccine is available for children between ages 11 and 12, with a two-dose vaccine. For those who missed that window, a three-dose shot is available for people 15 to 26.
HPV vaccines have been effective in reducing rates of head and neck cancers, and doctors urge greater public awareness of the link between oral sex and HPV-related cancers. Research shows that the overwhelming majority of people perform oral sex during intimacy, increasing the risk of HPV infection.
In separate news, Hollywood legend Michael Douglas revealed in 2013 that his mouth cancer diagnosis was likely caused by performing oral sex. Despite this progress, doctors stress the importance of early detection and prompt treatment.
"We want to encourage people to visit their GP if they have worrying symptoms and take up screening appointments when they receive them," said NHS England’s national clinical director for cancer, Professor Peter Johnson.
The fight against throat cancer requires a multifaceted approach, including public awareness campaigns, HPV vaccination, and early detection. With the right measures in place, we can reduce the number of throat cancer cases and improve outcomes for patients.
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