A recent study published in the New England Journal Of Medicine has created a lot of discussion about weather oral sex can cause cancer or not. This research has stirred some panic among people and this article goes in further detail on how HPV (which can cause cervical cancer) is the link between the two.
One of the main reasons for this emerging evidence is the sexual revolution of the 60’s and 70’s.
“Cancer is a long process,” says Kreimer who is one of the researchers behind this study. “We know that cancer takes probably 20 years, if not longer, to develop from the infection, so many decades later we’re seeing this trend increasing.”
Cancer is one thing that we are all terrified of and for the right reasons. We all have seen the damage it brings along and the effects it can have on your health.
In recent years, there has been growing interest and concern surrounding the potential link between oral sex and certain types of cancer.
The right knowledge and active measures play a vital role in mitigating the potential health consequences and will help you maintain strong relationships with your partner.
Oral sex and cancer – Where is the link?
Researchers have focused mostly on the transmission of human papillomavirus (HPV) through oral sex as a potential risk factor for the development of oral and throat cancers.
To understand the link, we need to find the ways of HPV transmission, risk factors, and prevention strategies to mitigate the potential health consequences.
HPV and Its Role in Cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a family of viruses that can infect the skin and mucous membranes. While many HPV types are relatively harmless and cause conditions like warts, some strains are considered high-risk due to their association with cancer.
Among these high-risk types, HPV-16 and HPV-18 have gathered particular attention for their role in oral and throat cancers.
HPV Transmission via Oral Sex
The link between oral sex and cancer begins with the transmission of high-risk HPV strains from one partner to another.
HPV can be transmitted as a matter of fact, through oral sex when one partner is infected with a cancer-causing strain of the virus.
The virus can then infect the oral and throat tissues of the other partner, potentially leading to cancer over time.
It’s important to note that HPV transmission can occur through any type of sexual contact involving the genital or anal area, not just oral sex.
However, oral sex has received more attention in recent research due to its role in transmitting HPV to the oral and throat regions. Consulting a sexologist doctor can help in educate yourself about the correct ways to avoid virus transmission.
Risk Factors
There are several factors that can influence the risk of developing cancer due to HPV infection from oral sex:
Number of Sexual Partners: People with multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk of encountering an HPV-infected partner and potentially acquiring the virus. The chances of carrying infections naturally increase with multiple partners as there are more chances of carelessness.
Age at First Sexual Activity: Engaging in sexual activity at a younger age may increase the risk of HPV exposure since younger individuals may have had fewer opportunities for HPV vaccination.
Other Behaviors: Behaviors that increase exposure to HPV, such as smoking and a weakened immune system, can further elevate the risk of developing HPV-related cancers.
What should you do to stay safe?
One of the most significant advancements in reducing the risk of HPV-related cancers has been the development of HPV vaccines.
These vaccines target the most common high-risk HPV strains, including HPV-16 and HPV-18. Vaccination is recommended for both males and females and is typically administered during adolescence.
The use of HPV vaccines has the potential to substantially reduce the prevalence of HPV-related oral and throat cancers in the future.
Moreover, routine screenings and check-ups with sexologists are essential for detecting oral and throat cancers at an early, more treatable stage.
These screenings may include physical examinations, as well as tests for HPV and cancerous cells in the oral and throat tissues. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment and improved outcomes.
Other than that, avoiding multiple partners also reduces the risk. You also should be particular about using contraception during sexual activity even if it is oral sex. Your sex life can determine your health status and you should be wary of it.
Bottom Line
In summary, there is a complex relationship between oral sex and cancer, particularly concerning the transmission of high-risk HPV strains associated with oral and throat cancers.
While not everyone who engages in oral sex with an HPV-infected partner will develop cancer, understanding the risk factors and taking preventive measures is crucial.
Safe sexual practices, HPV vaccination, and regular screenings are key strategies for reducing the risk of HPV-related oral and throat cancers.
It is advisable to consult with the best sexologist doctor if you have concerns about your risk or experience symptoms related to these types of cancer.
The sexologist doctors in India at our clinic will provide personalized guidance and recommendations for prevention and early detection.