Human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV, is a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to cancer.

While most people with HPV do not develop cancer, some types of HPV have been linked to cancer of the cervix, anus, vagina, penis, throat, tongue, and tonsils.

But did you know that the way you kiss someone could also increase your risk of developing HPV-related cancer?.

The Link Between HPV and Oral Sex

HPV is most commonly spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. However, recent studies have shown a stronger link between HPV and oral sex than previously thought.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPV can be spread through any skin-to-skin contact, including kissing.

While the risk of transmission through kissing alone is low, it is possible to contract HPV through deep kissing, also known as French kissing or tongue kissing.

During deep kissing, it is possible for the virus to be passed from one person to another if there is contact with an HPV-infected area, such as the mouth, lips, or tongue.

This is because HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact, and the virus can be found on the skin of the genital and anal areas, as well as the mouth and throat.

Oral Cancer and HPV

HPV is the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer, a type of head and neck cancer that affects the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 70% of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States are caused by HPV.

While smoking and heavy alcohol use have traditionally been the main risk factors for head and neck cancer, the prevalence of HPV-related oral cancer has been on the rise in recent years.

Unlike other forms of head and neck cancer, which are more common in older adults and often linked to tobacco and alcohol use, HPV-related oral cancer tends to affect younger adults, with the average age at diagnosis being in the late 40s.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent HPV, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing HPV-related cancer:.

Get vaccinated: The HPV vaccine is recommended for all boys and girls ages 11-12, although it can be given as early as age 9. The vaccine is also available for men and women up to age 45.
Practice safe sex: Using condoms or dental dams during oral, vaginal, and anal sex can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission.
Limit your number of sexual partners: The more sexual partners you have, the higher your risk of developing HPV.
Quit smoking: Tobacco use is a major risk factor for many types of cancer, including head and neck cancer.
Get regular check-ups: Regular Pap tests and HPV tests can help detect cervical cancer and precancerous lesions early.

Conclusion

While kissing alone is unlikely to cause HPV-related cancer, deep kissing or tongue kissing can increase the risk of HPV transmission, which in turn can increase the risk of developing oral, cervical, or other types of cancer.

By taking steps to reduce your risk of HPV, such as getting vaccinated, practicing safe sex, and limiting your number of sexual partners, you can help protect yourself against HPV-related cancer.