Here’s Why An Alarming Number Of Men Are Being Diagnosed With Head and Neck Cancers
In recent years, more and more men have seemingly been diagnosed with various types of head and neck cancers.
According to numerous doctors, the alarming rise in these types of cancers may be due to an STD.
Brett Comer, M.D., believes the human papilloma virus, otherwise known as HPV, is responsible for the influx in head and neck cancers among men.
During an interview with Men’s Health, Dr. Comer told the publication certain strains of the virus alter the function of cells near the head and neck, thus resulting in an inability for the body to suppress growths attributed to cancer.
In particular, doctors say more and more men in their 20s, 30s, and 40s are being diagnosed with head and neck cancers.
Before HPV became the most common STD in our country, head and neck cancers were not common in this age group, rather they were most often seen in men above the age of 50.
Head and neck cancers used to be linked to smoking and drinking in excess, but due to the rise in HPV, that is simply no longer the case.
In the last 20 years, doctors have seen an alarming number of men present symptoms linked to masses in their throat, on their tonsils, or on their neck.
While any kind of mass on the body can be scary, men can take comfort in knowing that these types of cancers generally respond very well to treatment.
The CDC estimates that around 43 percent of people in our country, between 18 to 59 years of age, have HPV. However, only around seven percent of people who have the STD carry a strain that could potentially lead to a cancer diagnosis.
Of course, early detection is key when dealing with any type of cancer, so if you have any concerns or masses, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
