Understanding The Oral Sex And Oral Cancer Link

Who would have ever guessed that cigarettes or alcohol is not the leading cause of oral cancer? Shocking revelations, backed by scientific facts point to oral sex as the leading cause of oral cancer among young people in 2010. The times certainly are different and changing in that, intimate intercourse has been replaced with oral sex.

During the past number of years oral sex has replaced intercourse as a safe way to have multiple partners, especially in light that many who practice this routine don't consider oral sex as sex, but as a way of enjoying friendly benefits. It is true that most sexually transmitted diseases are not spread through oral intimacy, but there are some that is and this is believed to be the reason for the increase in oral cancer cases.

The fact is that virtually all medical experts and studies have confirmed a link between oral sex and oral cancer and primarily the Human Papilloma Virus has been responsible for about 25% of the cases of oral cancer since 1970 and since 2005 approximately 75% of oral cancer cases can be traced back to this sexually transmitted disease. Those who are at greatest risk are of course those who have more than 6 sexual partners and those who have more than 26 partners increases the risk three fold.

Oral cancer includes cancer of the lips, mouth, tongue, and tonsils and may also be attributed to French kissing as well. These statistics are for the U.S. alone with the increase in the prevalence of oral sex while in other countries the leading cause of oral cancer remains with cigarette and tobacco smoking. As with most forms of cancer catching it early is key to successful treatment. If you think that you might be at risk it is a good idea to ask your dentist to check you out if they think that you may be a candidate for oral cancer. Your dentist can do a visual exam as well as check your oral cavity for any signs of cancer. As time goes on and the instances of oral cancer continue to rise more dentists may incorporate this cancer screening into their regular exam procedures.

It is also important to be aware of any changes in your own body including a chronic sore throat, inflamed lymph nodes, or a chronic post nasal drip which can all be signs of oral cancer. If you notice any of these signs get in to see your doctor immediately. It may just save your life.