A UK man has shared his story after being diagnosed with stage 3 throat cancer, warning others about a risk factor many people may not fully understand.
The man, who initially noticed a persistent sore throat, later learned his cancer was linked to human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can be transmitted through intimate contact.
Health experts explain that HPV is one of the leading causes of throat cancers, particularly cancers affecting the tonsils and back of the tongue.
While HPV can be passed through oral sex, doctors stress that you don’t get cancer directly from it. Instead, the virus can increase the risk of developing cancer years or even decades later.
In many cases, people carry HPV without knowing it, as it often has no symptoms and can remain dormant in the body for long periods.
The man’s diagnosis highlights a growing trend, with doctors reporting rising cases of HPV-related throat cancers, especially among men who may not have traditional risk factors like smoking.
Experts say factors such as multiple partners and lack of awareness about HPV transmission can increase exposure risk, although most infections never lead to cancer.
Health professionals continue to emphasize that the overall risk remains relatively low, but awareness, regular checkups, and vaccination where available can play a key role in prevention.
The story serves as a reminder that some serious conditions can develop silently, making it important to pay attention to persistent symptoms and seek medical advice early.
