Recent research conducted by Hisham Mehanna, a Professor at the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences at the University of Birmingham, has revealed a troubling trend: oral sex is now recognized as the primary cause of throat cancer in the Western world.
The study indicates a significant rise in cases of oropharyngeal cancer over the last twenty years, leading many to label it an epidemic.
Oropharyngeal cancer, which impacts the tonsils and the rear of the throat, is predominantly linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is also the leading cause of cervical cancer and has now overtaken cervical cancer in incidence rates in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
According to Mehanna, the virus is transmitted through sexual activity, with the number of lifetime sexual partners—especially those involving oral sex—being the primary risk factor for developing oropharyngeal cancer. Individuals who have had six or more oral sex partners are 8.5 times more likely to develop this type of cancer compared to those who have not engaged in oral sex.
Mehanna points out that behavioral studies show oral sex is commonly practiced, with 80% of adults in the UK admitting to having participated in it at some point in their lives. Despite this widespread occurrence, only a small fraction of these individuals go on to develop oropharyngeal cancer.
The prevailing hypothesis suggests that while most individuals can naturally eliminate HPV infections, a minority may be unable to do so, potentially due to an immune system deficiency, which allows the virus to persist and possibly lead to cancer.
To address this escalating health concern, Mehanna notes that numerous countries have initiated HPV vaccination programs aimed at young girls to prevent cervical cancer. Emerging evidence indicates that these vaccines may also be effective in preventing HPV infections in the oral cavity, thereby lowering the risk of oropharyngeal cancer.
Boys are also reaping the benefits of herd immunity in areas where there is substantial vaccine coverage among girls. Nations such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States have broadened their HPV vaccination guidelines to encompass young boys, thereby implementing a gender-neutral vaccination strategy.
Nevertheless, Mehanna points out that universal vaccination initiatives do not ensure complete coverage. Vaccine hesitancy, along with concerns regarding safety and fears of encouraging promiscuity, continues to pose significant challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has further hindered efforts to engage young individuals and has led to an increase in anti-vaccine sentiments.
The findings presented by Professor Mehanna highlight the critical necessity for enhanced awareness and vaccination rates to combat this escalating health issue. It is imperative for public health officials and policymakers to take action.
