Although not as common as many cancers, cancer of the throat can be devistating and survival rates are low.
Cancers of the mouth have long been associated with risk factors of smoking and alcohol use. Recent studies have shown a far greater risk factor- the presence of the HPV virus in the throat.
Those with a prior oral infection with HPV are up to 32 times more likely to develop throat cancer.
How does the HPV virus get in the throat? Pretty much solely from engaging in oral sex. Studies show that those who reported six or more oral partners were three times more likely to develop the cancer as those who reported they never had oral sex.
So be sure your dentist routinely checks for signs of mouth and throat cancer. And if your lifestyle places you in a high risk category consider being tested for oral HPV virus. Remember it can go undetected with no symptoms present.
I wish all of the teens out there who do not consider this risky would listen to this information!
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