Andy Devaney
If you think HPV is something only your GP should worry about, think again. Leading dental hygienist Anna Middleton is sounding the alarm on the growing link between HPV and oral cancer—particularly among younger people—warning that the virus could soon overtake alcohol and smoking as the top cause of mouth and throat cancer.
Just in time for Valentine’s Day—the annual celebration of love, lust, and questionable decisions—Middleton is urging Brits to think beyond the usual STI scare stories. Because when it comes to oral health, it’s not just your breath you should be worried about.
“You may wonder what sex has got to do with a dentist, but there is an increasing amount of evidence showcasing a link between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and oral cancer,” Middleton explains. “This risk factor should urge patients to visit their dental practice routinely for oral cancer screening. Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year we see a spike in sexual activity and therefore there is an increased risk of contracting HPV.”
A Virus on the Rise
HPV—short for Human Papillomavirus—is a viral infection passed through skin-to-skin contact. With over 100 known strains, more than 40 are sexually transmitted and can infect the genitals, mouth, or throat. Middleton warns that it’s not just penetrative sex you need to be cautious about. HPV can be transmitted via any genital contact, oral sex, or even shared sex toys.
It’s also stealthy. There are no symptoms, and no blood test can detect it. For women, HPV checks are part of cervical screening—but for everyone else, it can easily go unnoticed.
Yet the consequences can be far from silent. Around 1 in 4 mouth cancers and 1 in 3 throat cancers are now linked to HPV. In younger patients, the figures are even more sobering: most throat cancers are HPV-related, according to public health data.
“This Isn’t Something to Ignore”
The founder of London Hygienist, Middleton isn’t mincing her words. “This isn’t something to just pretend isn’t happening. There are stark facts out there about the rise of mouth cancer, especially in young people, caused by HPV,” she says. “People need to be aware when engaging in sexual activity and take the right precautions. If you’re worried about HPV, ensure you consult your GP and continue to see your dentist and dental hygienist on a regular basis.”
And while alcohol, smoking, and chewing tobacco are still major contributors to oral cancer, Middleton says HPV is fast becoming the main culprit in a growing number of cases. With young people often unaware of the risks, education around sexual health and oral hygiene is more critical than ever.
Know the Signs: Oral Cancer Warning Symptoms
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Middleton recommends keeping an eye out for the following:
- Red or red-and-white patches on your tongue or mouth lining
- Ulcers that don’t heal within 3 weeks
- A swelling in your mouth lasting more than 3 weeks
- Pain when swallowing
- A persistent feeling like something’s stuck in your throat
Routine dental visits are more than just polish and floss. “Visit your dentist at least once a year and your hygienist at least twice a year for cleanings and oral screenings,” Middleton advises. “It’s not just about a bright smile—it’s about catching problems before they become life-threatening.”
