Throat cancer

You’ve probably heard about the health risks caused by human papillomavirus, or HPV. Many people are exposed to HPV, and, the body is usually able to clear the infection on its own within one to two years. Yet, many people remain infected. It’s important to understand there is a link between HPV and oral health. HPV can also infect the mouth and throat. And there are some types of HPV that increase the risk for certain head and neck cancers. HPV can cause cancers in the oropharynx – which includes the back of the throat, the tonsils and the base of the tongue. Studies show that HPV causes up to 70% of these cancers in the U.S. Thankfully, the HPV vaccine is a simple way to protect your family. Who should get the HPV vaccine? The …