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Does human papilloma virus (HPV) cause throat cancer?

HPV is known to cause cervical cancer and studies have found an association between it and throat cancer, although it isn't clear to what degree HPV causes it. A vaccine for HPV is now available, but you can limit your risk of exposure by using condoms, even during oral sex.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is throat cancer?

Throat cancer is the term commonly used to refer to a range of cancers of different regions of the throat. They are nasopharyngeal cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, and laryngopharyngeal cancer.

Can throat cancer be cured?

Throat cancer may be cured, particularly if diagnosed early and appropriately treated.

What increases the chances of developing throat cancer?

Your risk of developing throat cancer increases if you smoke, drink alcohol, have HIV/AIDS, or a poor diet and poor oral hygiene.

What causes throat cancer?

Cancers result from damage to cellular DNA. In cases of throat cancer, this damage can be caused by smoking and alcohol consumption. Human papilloma virus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus are also believed to play a role in the development of throat cancer, but it is …

What are the symptoms of throat cancer?

Symptoms of throat cancer include a sore throat, pain and difficulty swallowing, weight loss, a lump in the throat, a persistent cough and bloody sputum.

How is throat cancer diagnosed?

Throat cancer is ultimately diagnosed by a pathologist examining a biopsy of a suspicious lesion. Before a biopsy is taken, you may have a physical examination, scans and procedures (such as an endoscopy) to further characterise the lesion.

How is throat cancer treated?

Treatment for throat cancer consists of surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.

Can throat cancer be prevented?

Throat cancer cannot be completely prevented. However, not smoking, limiting excessive alcohol consumption, and eating a healthy diet, can reduce your risk.

What alternative treatments are available for cancer?

Alternative therapies do not cure cancer, but they can help with quality of life when used in conjunction with conventional medical treatment. If you have cancer and are considering using any alternative treatments, speak to your doctor …

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About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 18 May 2018
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 190 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Lung cancer

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