Throat Cancer & the HPV Vaccine: What You Need to Know

Did you know that vaccine originally developed to prevent cervical cancer can also help protect against throat cancer?

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a powerful tool in preventing a range of cancers caused by high-risk HPV strains, including oropharyngeal cancers that affect the back of the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue.

The Link Between HPV & Throat Cancer

HPV is a common virus that spreads through skin-to-skin and intimate contact. While many infections clear on their own, certain high-risk strains can lead to long-term complications, including cancer. In fact, HPV is now one of the leading causes of throat cancer and cases are rising, particularly in younger individuals who don’t smoke or drink excessively.

Dr. Chris Hobbs, ENT Specialist at The ENT Clinic, explains: “HPV-related throat cancer is on the rise, particularly in younger individuals who may have never smoked or consumed alcohol excessively. The good news is that we now have a vaccine that can significantly reduce the risk.”

Although it’s still early to measure the vaccine’s direct impact on throat cancer due to the long lag between HPV infection and cancer development (often 20–30 years), early signs are encouraging. Dr. Hobbs points out: “HPV vaccination has already reduced cervical cancer rates by around 90% in females vaccinated before exposure, typically in the early teenage years. That gives us strong hope for its effect on other HPV-related cancers like throat cancer.”

Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

One of the most common early symptoms of HPV-related throat cancer is a lump in the neck. Other warning signs include a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, a change in the voice, or a one-sided earache. If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they persist beyond a few weeks, it’s important to get checked by an ENT specialist.

Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is most effective when given before exposure. It is routinely recommended for boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 14. This early intervention provides the best protection against the virus. If someone missed the vaccine in their teen years, catch-up vaccination is encouraged up to the age of 26.

Adults between the ages of 27 and 45 may still benefit from the vaccine, particularly if they are at ongoing risk due to new or multiple sexual partners. In such cases, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine if vaccination is still appropriate.

Not Sure if You’ve Been Vaccinated?

If you can’t remember whether you’ve received the HPV vaccine, there are a few steps you can take. First, check your medical records, in Singapore, you can log in to the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) using your Singpass account to see your vaccination history. If nothing shows up there, your GP or ENT specialist might also have a record of previous vaccinations.

Still unsure? The good news is that there’s no harm in being vaccinated again. If you’re under 45 and uncertain about your vaccine history, it is considered safe to receive the vaccine. You may still gain additional protection, especially if you haven’t been exposed to all the HPV strains covered by the vaccine.

Over 45? You Can Still Lower Your Risk

While the HPV vaccine is not routinely recommended beyond age 45, there are still ways to reduce your risk of throat cancer. According to Dr. Hobbs: “The most important risk for throat cancer is still smoking, so quitting should be the first priority. After that, limiting alcohol intake, practicing safer oral sex, and maintaining a healthy immune system can all help.”

What About Side Effects?

Most people tolerate the HPV vaccine well. The most common side effects are mild and include temporary pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Less frequently, people may experience nausea, fatigue, low-grade fever, headache, or general muscle and joint aches. These symptoms usually resolve within a few days.

A Simple Step for Lifelong Protection

Throat cancer is often aggressive and hard to detect early. The HPV vaccine offers a rare opportunity to prevent a serious cancer before it ever develops. If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, or want to explore your risk, speak to one of our ENT specialists.

A quick consultation today could protect your health for years to come.

Dr. Chris Hobbs is an ENT specialist.

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