The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to an increase in throat and tonsil cancers, particularly among men [1, 2].
This trend marks a shift in public health risks, as HPV was traditionally associated primarily with cervical cancer in women. The rise in oropharyngeal malignancies highlights a critical need for expanded vaccination and screening efforts for men to prevent life-threatening diseases.
Medical data indicates that HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally, with one in three men infected by some type of the virus [5]. While many infections clear on their own, persistent strains can infect the oropharyngeal mucosa and induce malignant transformations [4].
Experts point to changing behavioral patterns as a contributing factor. The increase in oral sex practices has facilitated the transmission of the virus to the throat, contributing to a drastic rise in related cancer cases [6].
Beyond the throat, the virus poses broader risks to male health. Men can develop cancers of the penis and anus [2]. According to the CDC, HPV can cause at least six different types of cancer [7]. In Peru, the impact of the virus is evident in the high volume of genital warts, with 419,000 adults affected annually [2].
"HPV is related to throat and tonsil cancer, especially in males," Analí Espinoza said [2].
Prevention centers on vaccination, which can protect against the strains of the virus that lead to mouth, tongue, and throat cancers [5]. Health officials said vaccination is a primary tool for reducing the long-term incidence of these malignancies in men.
“One in three men is infected by some type of HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world.”
The shift in HPV-related cancer demographics suggests that traditional gender-based vaccination strategies may be insufficient. As oropharyngeal cancers increase due to transmission via oral sex, public health frameworks must transition toward gender-neutral HPV prevention to address the rising burden of disease in the male population.
