World Head and Neck Cancer Day on July 27! Rising Threat of Oropharyngeal Cancer: Doctors Warn HPV Infection Possible Even Without Smoking or Drinking – Early Prevention Reduces Risk

Every year, July 27 is recognized as 'World Head and Neck Cancer Day.'

Dr. Chen Hong-Long from Xinglong ENT Clinic in Sanxia, New Taipei City, stated that while head and neck cancers (including oral, oropharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal cancers) were historically linked to risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and betel nut chewing, recent clinical observations have found a growing number of young male patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer despite lacking these habits. Cases associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection are continuously increasing, prompting doctors to urge the public to adopt correct cancer prevention awareness.

According to cancer registry data from Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare, oral cancer (including oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers) has long ranked among the most common cancers in Taiwan and remains within the top four most frequently diagnosed cancers among men. Dr. Chen pointed out that the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer among Taiwanese men has now surpassed that of cervical cancer among women. Currently, about 30% of oropharyngeal cancer cases are linked to HPV infection, and this proportion continues to rise.

While cervical cancer rates among women have steadily declined due to widespread cervical screening and HPV vaccination programs, adult men currently lack a standardized oropharyngeal cancer screening system, and awareness of prevention remains insufficient.

Research by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that among males aged 15 and above, approximately one in three is infected with at least one type of HPV, and one in five carries a high-risk, cancer-causing HPV strain. Dr. Chen explained that HPV is primarily transmitted through intimate and mucosal contact. Even with consistent condom use, complete protection against infection cannot be guaranteed. Men generally develop weaker immune responses following natural HPV infection. If the virus persists in the oropharyngeal area over many years of latency, it may increase the risk of cancer development.

In terms of prevention, Dr. Chen emphasized that HPV vaccination is one of the most important measures currently available. A large-scale study published in 'JAMA Oncology' in 2026 tracked over 2.9 million males aged 9 to 26 and found that those who received the 9-valent HPV vaccine had approximately a 46% lower risk of developing HPV-related cancers compared to unvaccinated individuals. The 9-valent HPV vaccine currently used in Taiwan protects against multiple high-risk HPV types, covering the majority of strains associated with oropharyngeal cancer, oral cancer, and other HPV-related cancers. It also prevents genital warts (commonly known as 'cauliflower').

In response to World Head and Neck Cancer Day on July 27, Dr. Chen urges everyone, regardless of gender or age, to recognize the risk of HPV infection if they engage in intimate contact. He recommends consulting nearby ENT specialists, family physicians, or healthcare providers to determine personal eligibility for HPV vaccination and other preventive measures. By building comprehensive protective awareness, the public can collectively reduce the risk of HPV-related head and neck cancers.