The common virus fuelling a 'tsunami' of cancers, particularly in men

Written by Henrietta Cook for the Australian 
January 7, 2025 - 11.51am

Key points:

• Throat cancer cases in Australia have risen by 254% since 2004, with over 1,000 cases expected in 2025.

• The human papillomavirus (HPV), commonly spread through oral sex, now causes about 64% of these cancers.

• Most people clear HPV naturally, but for some, it can lead to cancer decades later.

• Men are most affected, making up 85% of cases. Smoking increases the risk of not clearing the virus.

• There is no screening test for throat cancer. Key symptoms include a persistent sore throat, lump in the neck, hoarseness, or ear pain.

• HPV-related throat cancers are highly treatable if caught early, with an 80% cure rate.

• The HPV vaccine (Gardasil), introduced in schools, is expected to reduce future cases, but benefits may take decades to appear.

• Prevention includes vaccination, using condoms with new partners, and avoiding smoking and heavy alcohol use.

Read the article of Sydney Morning Herald

Learn more about HPV and Head and Neck Cancer