Albertville, AL
When you hear about HPV (human papillomavirus), it is likely that you automatically think cervical cancer. So it may sound surprising that this sexually transmitted disease, spread by oral sex from person to person, is the leading cause of throat cancer among people in the U.S.
Throat cancer, clinically referred to as oropharyngeal cancer, has long since been linked to smoking, but researchers are now seeing an increase in this cancer among patients with HPV. In fact, throat cancer will soon surpass the rate of cervical cancer.
What are my risks?
The most significant risk of contracting HPV is having multiple sex partners, which goes for both men and women. Although so far, HPV-related cases of throat cancer seem to be higher in men than in women, which may be due to an increased immunological response that women have developed. Smoking also increases one’s risk of developing throat cancer.
Here’s how to protect yourself
There are certainly ways you can help decrease your risk of throat cancer.
- Limit sexual partners – the higher number of sexual partners, the greater one’s risk of throat cancer. Be sure always to practice safe sex by using condoms or dental dams.
- Get vaccinated – This goes for both children and adults, ages 9 thru 26.
- Get screened – Visit the dentist regularly for routine checkups and dental cleanings. You will be examined for oral and neck cancers or tumors during these visits.
- Limit intake of smoking and alcohol consumption – Not to ruin the party, but quick smoking and limit your alcohol consumption to reduce your risk.
What are the symptoms of throat cancer?
Symptoms may vary by patient, and many times early stages of throat cancer do not seem to present many noticeable symptoms at all, which is why routine dental checkups are so important.
Here is what to look out for:
- Swelling in the neck, or masses of any size
- Pain in the ears, difficulty swallowing, or eating
- Unusual hoarseness
- A sore throat or enlarged lymph nodes
- Unexplained weight loss
- Sudden onset of snoring
Don’t wait until symptoms appear. Get checked regularly by your dentist! The earlier throat cancer is detected, the better the survival rate.
For more information or to schedule an oral cancer screening, contact Wall Street Dentistry today at (256) 878-0525. We welcome patients of Albertville and Boaz, Alabama.