Oral Sex Identified as Leading Cause of Throat Cancer in Western World
HPV-Related Throat Cancer on the Rise: Study Points to Oral Sex as Key Risk Factor
- A new study has revealed that oral sex is the primary cause of throat cancer in the Western world.
- The research highlights a significant increase in oropharyngeal cancer cases
- The study found that the number of lifetime oral sex partners is a crucial risk factor
A new study by Professor Hisham Mehanna from the University of Birmingham has revealed that oral sex is the primary cause of throat cancer in the Western world.
The research highlights a significant increase in oropharyngeal cancer cases, a type of throat cancer linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
The study found that the number of lifetime oral sex partners is a crucial risk factor, with individuals having six or more partners being at significantly higher risk of developing the cancer.
While HPV vaccination programs have been successful in reducing cervical cancer rates, they also offer protection against oropharyngeal cancer.
However, challenges such as vaccine hesitancy and concerns about vaccine safety continue to hinder widespread vaccination coverage.
Professor Mehanna’s research underscores the urgent need for increased public awareness about the link between oral sex and throat cancer, as well as expanded vaccination programs to address this growing health concern.
