New Research Sheds Light on HPV’s Role in Head and Neck Cancers

By Janya Ullal

A promising new study from earlier in June has found that HPV is not only linked to cervical cancer, but also to head and neck cancer. With HPV-driven throat cancers on the rise–especially in younger populations–this breakthrough could reshape future screening and prevention strategies.

A growing body of research continues to uncover the long-term impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) on cancer development, particularly in the head and neck. Usually, HPV is most often linked to cervical cancer, but recent findings highlight that HPV-16, a high-risk variant of the virus, is a major contributor to oropharyngeal/throat cancer–those affecting the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils. One concerning aspect of HPV-related head and neck cancer is its delayed onset–it may develop years or even decades after initial exposure. HPV varies between low risk and high risk, although high risk doesn’t show as many symptoms as low risk, which shows warts around the genitals, mouth, or throat. High risk puts those affected at a higher risk of cancer. HPV-16 is the most common high-risk type of HPV among all 200 types. 

HPV is a common virus that is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. The virus can live in cells of the mouth, throat, and genitals without showing any symptoms. A recent study shows that “smoking and alcohol independently increase the risk of both HPV-positive and HPV-negative”. In fact, HPV-16 alone is responsible for approximately 50% of cervical cancers worldwide and is now increasingly recognized in head and neck cancer cases.

Fortunately, prevention is possible. A Quadrivalent Vaccine, available for children and adults up to age 26 up to age 26, protects against four major HPV strains, including HPV-16. The CDC recommends vaccination between the ages of 9-12, when the immune response is strongest. Additional prevention strategies include safer intimacy practices, regular dental and health checkups, and minimizing alcohol and tobacco use.

As research advances, experts hope better screening and earlier detection will help reduce the growing burden of HPV-related cancers. For now, education and vaccination remain the strongest tools we have in preventing these largely avoidable cancers.

Sources:

1. American Cancer Society. "HPV and Head and Neck Cancer: Understanding the Risks." American Cancer Society. June 11, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/latest-news/hpv-and-head-and-neck-cancer-understanding-the-risks.html.
2. British Journal of Cancer. Sabatini, M.E., Chiocca, S. Human papillomavirus as a driver of head and neck cancers. Br J Cancer 122, 306–314 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41416-019-0602-7 
3. Stanford Cancer Institute.  "Charting New Paths in Head and Neck Cancer." Stanford Medicine, Date. https://med.stanford.edu/cancer/about/news/holsinger.html.
4. Healthline. "HPV Types: What to Know About Diagnosis, Outlook, and Prevention." Healthline, June 26, 2023. https://www.healthline.com/health/sexually-transmitted-diseases/hpv-types
5. National Cancer Institute. "HPV and Cancer." National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-and-cancer.