According to the American Cancer Society, oral sex can lead to the development of throat cancer. Human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted sexually, including through oral sex, is considered to be the causative agent. Papilloma infections have been shown to lead to the development of cervical cancer. A significant proportion of cancer cases are caused by types 16 and 18. However, a recent report from Ohio State University and the American Cancer Institute showed that throat and oral cancer may overtake cervical cancer in prevalence. Research has found that some cancers of the oropharynx and tonsils are likely to be caused by certain types of HPV. The question of the relationship between papillomaviruses and oropharyngeal cancer was raised in the late 1980s and early 1990s, explains Dr. Otis Brawley of the American Cancer Society. Researchers have noticed an increase in cases of the oncological disease among people who are not supposed to be prone to it. The higher incidence begins to affect people around the age of 40 who do not smoke or drink alcohol. Until a few years ago, the main risk factors for the occurrence of throat cancer were smoking and alcohol abuse. Since 2000, scientists have been taking advantage of DNA testing and identifying HPV type 16 in people who have developed the malignancy. NEWS_MORE_BOX It should be known that sexual activity plays a significant role in the risk of developing throat cancer, emphasizes Dr. Otis Brawley. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2007, HPV type 16 infection and a higher risk of oropharyngeal cancer were observed in people who had oral sex with at least 6 different partners. It is not yet clear how many people are affected by HPV throat infections as a result of oral sex, and how many of them develop oropharyngeal cancer. However, experts now know that this type of cancer caused by HPV is more easily treatable than those caused by factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption. The most appropriate methods of preventing infection of the oral cavity and throat with papilloma viruses have not yet been clarified. Vaccination against HPV is among the possible ways to reduce the risk. So far, the vaccine is approved to protect against cervical cancer, genital warts and anal cancer. More research is needed to determine whether immunizing against cervical cancer can also help prevent oropharyngeal cancer.