Oral Sex Declared as the Number One Cause of Throat Cancer, According to Doctor’s TikTok
By Caitlin Tilley, Health Reporter for Dailymail.com
12:43 01 Nov 2023, Updated 13:19 01 Nov 2023
Exploring the Link Between Oral Sex and Throat Cancer
In a recent TikTok video, Dr. Daria Sadovskaya, a 29-year-old doctor from Singapore, made a startling claim about the link between oral sex and throat cancer. Traditionally, tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption have been considered the primary risk factors for throat cancer. However, Dr. Sadovskaya argued that performing oral sex on a partner can actually pose a greater risk for developing this life-threatening disease.
When one of her many followers asked for clarification on whether she was saying that oral sex is the number one cause of throat cancer, Dr. Sadovskaya playfully responded by mouthing the lyrics “I said what I said.” This bold statement challenges the prevailing beliefs surrounding the causes of throat cancer and highlights the role of oral sex in the transmission of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to the development of throat cancer.
The Role of HPV in Throat Cancer
According to doctors, HPV, a family of viruses that commonly infect the genitals, can also be transferred to the throat during oral sex, making it a significant source of throat cancers. Men are at a higher risk because women are more likely to carry the virus. This connection between HPV and throat cancer gained attention when actor Michael Douglas publicly revealed that his throat cancer was caused by HPV.
HPV is most well-known for its links to cervical cancers but has also been found to cause about one in 20 cancers worldwide, including cancers of the mouth, throat, penis, and anus. While most HPV infections go away on their own, some can persist and lead to throat cancer. Different areas of the throat are affected by throat cancer, such as the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx.
It is estimated that in 2023, around 54,540 American adults will be diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer, and approximately 11,580 will die from the disease. These numbers highlight the urgency of understanding the risk factors associated with throat cancer, including the role of oral sex in HPV transmission.
Increasing Awareness and Prevention
Doctors emphasize that HPV is the leading risk factor for throat cancer in both men and women. To reduce the risk of developing throat cancer, it is crucial to practice safe sex and take preventive measures:
- Get vaccinated against HPV
- Undergo regular HPV screenings and check-ups
- Practice safe sex by using condoms
Unfortunately, only 54 percent of Americans have received the HPV vaccine, well below the recommended threshold of 80 percent. By raising awareness about the link between oral sex, HPV, and throat cancer, it is hoped that more individuals will take steps to protect themselves and reduce the prevalence of this disease.
Conclusion
Dr. Daria Sadovskaya’s TikTok video has shed light on the connection between oral sex and throat cancer, challenging traditional beliefs surrounding the causes of this disease. By highlighting the role of HPV transmission through oral sex, it is crucial to increase awareness, encourage preventive measures, and promote safe sexual practices. Together, we can work towards reducing the incidence of throat cancer and its devastating impact on individuals.
