HPV and Throat Cancer: What People Over 40 Should Know
Why HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is increasing particularly among men
Why HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is increasing particularly among men
Key Takeaways
- Up to 70% of throat cancers are caused by HPV infection
- Cases are rising, especially in adults over 40 and men
- Cancer can develop decades after HPV infection
- HPV vaccination helps prevent these cancers
Once relatively uncommon, oropharyngeal cancer — which affects the back of the throat, base of the tongue and tonsils — has been rising rapidly in people over age 40. Up to 70% of these cancers are linked to human papillomavirus virus (HPV) infection.
HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States, has long been known to cause cervical cancer. Today, it is also the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer, which has increased significantly, particularly among men ages 40 and older.
In fact, oropharyngeal cancer has surpassed cervical cancers as the most common HPV-related cancer in the U.S., with an average of 22,000 cases diagnosed every year, according to national studies.
How HPV causes head and neck cancer
There are more than 200 known types of HPV. Many people are exposed to the virus at some point in their lives; according to the American Cancer Society, 43 million people in the United States have HPV and 13 million people become infected every year.
Because HPV rarely causes symptoms, most people do not even know they have it. Fortunately, the immune system naturally clears most HPV infections within two years. However, infection with high-risk types of HPV, such as HPV-16, can lead to cancerous changes in cells.
HPV lives in certain types of cells on mucous membranes, such as the mouth, throat and genitals; oral HPV transmission is strongly linked to oral sexual activity. People who have had a higher number of oral sex partners tend to have an increased risk of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer. Men have significantly higher rates of this type of cancer than women
Although HPV infection often occurs earlier in life, it can take years or decades after initial exposure for HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer to develop. As a result, it is most common in middle-aged and older adults.
“When people who are now over 40 were younger, the HPV vaccine was not yet available,” says Brendan Gaylis, MD, an otolaryngologist at Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines and Scripps Clinic Rancho Bernardo. “The virus was more prevalent, and sexually active people were more likely to get infected. Consequently, decades later we are seeing a rise in oropharyngeal cancer, particularly throat cancer.”
Symptoms of HPV-related head and neck cancers
As with most types of cancer, knowing the signs and symptoms of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer can help detect it earlier, when it may be easier to treat.
Signs and symptoms of throat cancer include:
- A sore throat that doesn’t get better
- Pain or difficulty while swallowing
- A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
- A lump on the neck or in the back of the throat
- White patches on the tongue, throat or tonsils
- Problems moving the tongue, chewing or opening your mouth all the way
- Voice changes or hoarseness
- Persistent ear pain
- Unexpected weight loss
Many of these symptoms may be caused by common illnesses and do not necessarily mean you have cancer. However, if they last longer than two weeks, make an appointment with your doctor to find out what is causing them and determine the appropriate treatment.
Preventing HPV-related cancer
Vaccination is the most effective way to help prevent HPV-related throat cancer. The HPV vaccine prevents new HPV infections but does not treat existing infections or diseases, so it works best when given before someone is exposed to HPV.
The American Cancer Society recommends HPV vaccination for children starting at age 11 and for adults up to age 26 who have not been vaccinated. After age 26, talk with your doctor about your risk for new HPV infections and whether vaccination is right for you.
“The HPV vaccine was developed to prevent cervical and other cancers of the reproductive system. It protects against the types of HPV that can cause oropharyngeal cancer, so it is one of the best ways to help prevent them.” says Dr. Gaylis. “Having your children or grandchildren vaccinated at age 11 or 12 can help ensure they are protected from HPV infection now and related diseases later in life.”