Researchers at the University of Leipzig have found that patients with human papillomavirus (HPV) oropharyngeal cancer are more likely to have sexual intercourse before the age of 18. Vaccination of boys and girls before puberty can reduce the risk of developing this tumor. Research published in the journal Cancers.
Previous research has shown that head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancer, may be associated with sexually transmitted HPV.
The new study included 303 healthy people and 317 patients with head and neck cancer. Oropharyngeal cancer patients did not engage in more risky sexual behavior or have more partners than healthy people, contrary to the researchers’ expectations.
At the same time, cancer patients were more likely to smoke and consume more alcohol than healthy people. Also, oropharyngeal cancer caused by HPV was more likely to occur in those who were sexually active before age 18.
The scientists noted that the HPV vaccine is highly recommended for boys and girls before puberty. Their use is allowed from the age of nine.
HPV is a common virus: most people get it at some point in their lives. It can infect epithelial cells of the skin and mucous membranes of various localizations. More than 100 HPV subtypes are known, most of which cause only benign lesions – warts and condylomas. Certain subtypes, particularly HPV16, significantly increase the risk of cancer of the cervix, oropharynx, penis, vulva, and anal canal.
ancient scientists in your name Another danger of having sexual intercourse in adolescence.