HPV, a sexually transmitted disease caused by the Human Papillomavirus, is one of the major triggers for cervix cancer. However, recently HPV has been appointed also as a cause for throat cancer.

The diagnosis can be determined by a practitioner physician or by an otolaryngologist through physical exams followed by laryngoscopy. The best prevention against HPV is vaccination, in addition, of course to safe oral sex, taking some essential care such as the use of condom, which also prevents the transmission of other diseases, including Aids.

The main symptoms of throat cancer include:

• Loss of voice or persistent hoarseness, which does not heal after 1 to 2 weeks of treatment.
• A sore throat that does not heal after 1 to 2 weeks of treatment.
• Any wound within the mouth which does not cicatrize.
• Pain or discomfort in the neck, sometimes with nodes in that zone.
• Cough, sometimes accompanied by blood.
• Persistent bad breath.
• Strange sounds while breathing and difficulty to breath properly, which may cause fatigue and tiredness.
• Appearance of any reddish or whitish area on tongue, gums, tonsils or lining of the mouth.
• In more advanced cases, difficulty to swallow and weight loss.

Any doubts? Talk to your physician.