Over the past two decades, cases of throat cancer have risen sharply across Western countries. In particular, oropharyngeal cancer — affecting the tonsils and back of the throat — has become increasingly common. Notably, oral sex is now considered the leading risk factor for this type of cancer, which is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This same virus is also the main cause of cervical cancer. In countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, oropharyngeal cancer has now surpassed cervical cancer in prevalence.

HPV is sexually transmitted, and the risk increases with the number of lifetime sexual partners, especially those involving oral sex. However, only a small proportion of people infected with HPV go on to develop cancer. In most cases, the body clears the virus naturally, but in some individuals it persists and may eventually lead to cancer.

HPV vaccination, initially aimed at preventing cervical cancer in girls, is now believed to also offer protection against oral infections. As a result, more countries are extending vaccination programmes to include boys. Still, effectiveness depends on high vaccination coverage, which remains uneven.

Factors such as vaccine hesitancy and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to complicate efforts to achieve broad protection.