HPV infection may cause throat, mouth cancer

HPV infection may cause throat, mouth cancer

What is HPV?

The HPV-cancer connection

The nonspecific symptoms of throat and mouth cancer

Throat and mouth cancer treatment options

  • Radiation therapy
  • Surgery to remove cancer that has not spread to other areas
  • Surgery to remove part of your throat, voice box or lymph nodes
  • Chemotherapy
  • Drug therapy
  • Immunotherapy

Preventing throat and mouth cancer

  • Get vaccinated for HPV. The CDC found that more than 90% of cancers caused by HPV could be prevented by vaccination. The CDC now recommends that all 11- and 12-year-olds receive two doses of HPV vaccine at least six months apart. Teens and young adults up to age 26 also can be vaccinated. Some adults 27 to 45 years old may decide to get the HPV vaccine based on a discussion with their health care team. If you cannot get vaccinated for HPV, you can lower your risk of HPV infection by limiting your number of sexual partners and using a condom or dental dam every time you have sex.
  • Don’t smoke or use tobacco. If you smoke or use smokeless tobacco, quit. It can be challenging to stop, so talk with your health care team about smoking cessation strategies, such as medication, counseling and nicotine replacement products.
  • Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, that means up to one drink per day for women and two for men.
  • Eat a diet full of fruits and vegetables. The vitamins and antioxidants in fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk of throat cancer. Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables.
  • Use a respirator if around hazardous chemicals. Lower your exposure to chemicals by using a respirator and other personal protective equipment approved by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

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