Protecting Yourself from HPV-Related Throat Cancer

You could be at risk of developing throat cancer – even if you don’t smoke. In fact, throat cancer is now more commonly caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) than smoking.

Learn the symptoms, treatment options and how to protect yourself from cancers caused by this common virus.

What is HPV?

HPV is a very common virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly everyone will be exposed to HPV at some point in their lives.

HPV is transmitted from person to person through contact. Different forms of this virus can cause different problems. Some forms may cause low-risk issues such as warts, whereas higher-risk forms can cause larger issues such as various types of cancer.

Oropharyngeal (Throat) Cancer Caused by HPV

Cancer of the oropharynx, otherwise known as the throat, is the most prevalent of HPV-caused cancers. This type of cancer occurs in the back part of the mouth including the soft palate, back of the throat, tonsils and the back part of the tongue.

Symptoms of Oropharyngeal Cancer

The most common symptom of this type of cancer is a painless neck mass or swollen lymph node. Some patients may also experience pain or difficulty swallowing, pain in the ear or hoarseness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit your primary care provider right away.

If your provider suspects cancer, they may refer you to a specialist for further testing. A biopsy may be used to determine your diagnosis.

Treatment of Oropharyngeal Cancer

“The good news is that HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer responds really well to treatment,” shares Andrew J. Rosko, MD, a head and neck cancer surgeon with ProMedica Physicians Ear, Nose and Throat – Sylvania.

Cancer treatment may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or a combination of these treatment methods.

“We will select the treatment that is best for each patient as no two patients are the same,” Dr. Rosko explains. “The goal is for us to ensure the best chance for a cure and reduce the side effects that come with treatment.

If surgery is needed, the type of surgery used to remove this type of cancer is minimally invasive. Head and neck surgeons utilize minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery to provide a safer, more accurate surgical experience. This type of procedure also often leads to less scarring and faster recovery.

“Oftentimes, because the cancer is related to the HPV virus, these cancer patients are younger and healthier than with those with non-HPV related head and neck cancer,” shares Mohamed Issa, MD, a head and neck cancer surgeon with ProMedica Physicians Ear, Nose and Throat – Sylvania. “Current clinical trials are showing that with robotic surgery, many patients may be cured and those who need further treatment could get a much lower dose. This is important for minimizing long-term side effects and optimizing the patient’s overall life function.”

For other patients, treating the cancer with radiation either with, or without chemotherapy, is the best way to cure the cancer and provide the best long term functional outcome.

Protecting Yourself from HPV and HPV-Related Cancers

The only related risk factor for HPV and HPV-related cancers is your number of sexual partners. The best way to protect yourself from HPV, and reduce your risk of developing HPV-related cancers, is to get the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine given in the United States prevents against nine subtypes of HPV. This includes two high-risk subtypes that account for most HPV-related cancers.

According to the CDC, more than 90% of HPV-caused cancers could be prevented by the HPV vaccine.

The best time to receive the HPV vaccine is before you have had any sexual encounters. The CDC recommends that 11- to 12-year-olds receive two doses of the HPV vaccine six to 12 months apart.

“With the HPV vaccines, we have a chance at preventing future generations from having to deal with this cancer,” shares Dr. Issa.

If you did not receive the HPV vaccine as an adolescent, it is still recommended you receive it as an adult. The vaccine is recommended for anyone aged nine to 45.

“Even if you’ve been exposed to one or a few subtypes already, the HPV vaccine can help protect you from being infected by other subtypes,” Dr. Rosko shares.

“Vaccine awareness is key. We have a chance at eradicating this type of cancer and protecting future generations from the toxicity of the disease and the treatments related to the disease,” shares Dr. Issa.

Talk with your primary care provider about if the HPV vaccine is right for you.

Andrew Rosko, MD
Dr. Rosko is a head and neck surgeon with ProMedica Physicians Ear, Nose Throat and Mouth. View his profile. 

Mohamed Issa, MD
Dr. Issa is a head and neck surgeon with ProMedica Physicians Ear, Nose Throat and Mouth. View his profile.