Medical experts warn that rising cases of HPV-related throat and neck cancers are being fueled by risky sexual practices and a lack of public awareness in America

When most people hear about HPV (human papillomavirus), they immediately associate it with cervical cancer in women.

But doctors and researchers are now raising the alarm that this common virus is also driving up cases of cancers in the throat, tongue, tonsils, neck, esophagus, anus, and genitals.

The surprising part? HPV actually affects men more than women, yet public awareness about this fact remains low.

The Silent Spread of HPV

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, often spread through oral or penetrative sex.

It can also be transmitted via saliva and even during childbirth.

According to researchers, around 42 million people in the U.S. are currently infected, and an astonishing 98% of Americans have been exposed to the virus at some point.

Despite its widespread presence, many people don’t realize they have HPV because it often shows no symptoms.

While the immune system clears most infections naturally, some cases persist, leading to cancer over time.

The Knowledge Gap: What People Don’t Know About HPV

A recent survey conducted by Ohio State University revealed some concerning knowledge gaps:

• 42% of respondents incorrectly believed HPV was more common in women.
• 45% were unaware that HPV is linked to other cancers besides cervical cancer.
• 40% thought HPV always causes symptoms, when in reality, many infected people have no idea they carry the virus.

Dr. Electra Paskett, a cancer researcher at Ohio State, highlighted the dangers of these misconceptions, particularly the fact that more men are infected with HPV than women.

This lack of awareness increases the risk of unknowingly spreading the virus.

The Rising Threat of HPV-Related Throat Cancer

One of the most alarming trends doctors are seeing is the sharp rise in oropharyngeal cancer—a type of throat cancer affecting the area behind the mouth.

Since the mid-2000s, cases have skyrocketed, and experts believe oral sex is a primary driver.

The National Cancer Institute reported that in 2024 alone, there were 58,450 new cases of oropharyngeal cancer and 12,230 deaths from the disease in the U.S.

It has now surpassed cervical cancer in prevalence, particularly among men.

Research suggests that the number of lifetime sexual partners plays a significant role in risk levels.

Dr. Hisham Mehanna from the University of Birmingham found that individuals who have had six or more oral sex partners are 8.5 times more likely to develop oropharyngeal cancer than those who have not engaged in oral sex.

The Vaccine: A Powerful Tool Against HPV-Related Cancers

One of the most effective ways to prevent HPV-related cancers is through vaccination.

The HPV vaccine, recommended for children between the ages of 9 and 12, has been shown to reduce the risk of infection by up to 90%.

While it’s most effective when given at a younger age, it is still available for people up to age 45.

Dr. Paskett emphasized the importance of this vaccine, calling it a “powerful tool for cancer prevention.”

However, current vaccination rates are far from ideal.

According to the CDC, only 57% of eligible children have received the shot, leaving millions vulnerable to future infections and cancer risks.

What Happens If HPV Infections Keep Rising?

Experts warn that if HPV infection rates continue to climb, cancers of the neck and throat could become the most common cancers in adults.

Dr. Matthew Old, a head and neck surgeon, cautioned that oropharyngeal cancer could become one of the top three cancers among middle-aged men by 2045 and the most common cancer among senior men within the next decade.

Because HPV has no cure, once a person is infected, they carry the virus for life, and high-risk strains can turn into cancer years or even decades later.

This makes prevention—through vaccination and safe sex practices—absolutely critical.

What’s Next?

Doctors and researchers are urging more public education about HPV, increased vaccination efforts, and regular screenings to catch related cancers early.

If awareness doesn’t improve, the U.S. could face an epidemic of HPV-related cancers, with devastating consequences.

So, what can you do? Get informed, get vaccinated, and talk to your doctor about HPV-related cancer risks.

The fight against HPV starts with knowledge and action.