Did you know HPV causes more throat cancers than cervical cancer in men today? That’s right. While cervical cancer gets the most attention, HPV is now the leading cause of throat cancers in men. And anal cancer rates are also rising. But here’s the good news: these cancers are largely preventable with the HPV vaccine. Let’s break down what you need to know about HPV-related throat and anal cancers-and how to protect yourself.
What is HPV, and how does it cause cancer?
HPV is a common virus spread through skin-to-skin contact during sex. Most people get it at some point, but the body usually clears it. However, persistent infection with high-risk types like HPV 16 and 18 can lead to cancer. These types are responsible for nearly all HPV-related cancers, including throat and anal cancers.
HPV isn’t something to panic about. Over 80% of sexually active people will get it in their lifetime. The problem happens when the immune system can’t clear the virus. That’s when high-risk HPV types can cause cells to grow abnormally, eventually becoming cancerous. This process takes years, which is why early prevention is so critical.
Throat cancer: The rising threat
HPV causes about 70% of throat cancers in the U.S., specifically in the oropharynx (back of the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue). CDC data shows these cases have been rising steadily. In fact, HPV-positive throat cancer is now more common than cervical cancer in men. HPV 16 alone is responsible for 85% of these cases.
Symptoms might include a sore throat that doesn’t go away, trouble swallowing, ear pain, or a lump in the neck. Unlike cervical cancer, there’s no routine screening for throat cancer. That means catching it early relies on noticing symptoms and seeing a doctor. This is why vaccination is so important-it stops the virus before it causes damage.
Anal cancer: A less talked-about risk
HPV causes 91% of anal cancers. While less common than throat cancer, anal cancer rates have been increasing, especially among men who have sex with men. But it can affect anyone. Risk factors include anal sex, smoking, and a weakened immune system (like from HIV). Symptoms might include bleeding, pain, or lumps around the anus.
Here’s the challenge: there’s no standard screening for anal cancer like there is for cervical cancer. Doctors sometimes check high-risk groups (like people with HIV), but most people won’t get routine tests. That means prevention through vaccination is even more crucial. The Gardasil-9 vaccine protects against the HPV types causing most anal cancers.
Prevention: Vaccination and screening
The CDC recommends HPV vaccination for all kids at age 11-12. The vaccine works best before exposure to HPV, so early is better. It’s available up to age 26 for everyone, and for adults 27-45 after discussing with a doctor. Gardasil-9 protects against 9 types of HPV, including those causing 90% of cervical cancers and a high proportion of throat and anal cancers.
For cervical cancer, screening is key. Women aged 25-65 should get primary HPV testing every 5 years, co-testing (HPV and Pap) every 5 years, or Pap alone every 3 years. But for throat and anal cancers, screening isn’t routine. That’s why vaccination is the main defense. Experts like Dr. Anna Giuliano say, “The rising cases of throat cancer in men show we’re failing to vaccinate enough kids.”
Current challenges in HPV prevention
Vaccine hesitancy is a major hurdle. About 28% of parents cite safety concerns, even though studies show the HPV vaccine is safe and effective. Many doctors don’t consistently recommend it-only 65% of providers say it’s as important as other adolescent vaccines. Access is harder in rural areas, where 32% fewer vaccination opportunities exist compared to urban areas.
But success stories exist. Rhode Island’s school-based vaccination program increased HPV vaccination rates from 53% to 84% between 2016 and 2022. This led to a 22% drop in high-grade cervical lesions among adolescent girls. These results prove that better access and education work.
What you can do right now
- Get vaccinated if you’re under 26. It’s safe, effective, and protects against multiple cancers.
- For adults 27-45, talk to your doctor about whether vaccination is right for you.
- Encourage parents to vaccinate their kids at age 11-12. Delaying means missing the best time for protection.
- Support public health efforts to improve vaccine access and education in your community.
Remember: HPV is common, but these cancers don’t have to be. Prevention starts with action.
Can HPV cause throat cancer?
Yes. HPV causes about 70% of throat cancers in the U.S., specifically in the oropharynx (back of the throat). It’s now the leading cause of throat cancer in men, surpassing cervical cancer. HPV 16 alone is responsible for 85% of these cases.
Is the HPV vaccine only for girls?
No. The vaccine protects both boys and girls. It prevents throat, anal, and other cancers in men, and cervical cancer in women. CDC recommends it for all kids at age 11-12, regardless of gender.
How effective is the HPV vaccine?
The current Gardasil-9 vaccine prevents 90% of HPV-related cancers. It protects against the HPV types causing most cervical, throat, and anal cancers. Studies show it reduces HPV infections by up to 90% in vaccinated populations.
Can adults get the HPV vaccine?
Yes. It’s recommended for everyone up to age 26. For adults 27-45, it’s available after discussing with a doctor. Even if you’ve had HPV, the vaccine can protect against other types you haven’t been exposed to.
Is there screening for throat or anal cancer?
No standard screening exists for throat cancer. For anal cancer, doctors might screen high-risk groups (like people with HIV), but it’s not routine. That’s why vaccination is the best prevention-catching these cancers early is difficult without screening.
