Oral sex is a commonly performed act of foreplay involving the kissing or licking of the genital area to pleasure a partner. However, it is sometimes stated that the act alone can increase the risk of throat cancer. Is this really the case? Human papillomavirus HPV can spread during oral sex, increasing the possibility of cancer. Sexual health presents a range of risks, but worrying about potential health concerns can decrease intimacy between partners and, ultimately, quality of life. While caution is always advised when it comes to protection against sexual health problems, it is important to know the facts. It will also explain the major risk factors for throat cancer.

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What causes cancer in the mouth and throat?
Candidiasis is an infection caused by a yeast a type of fungus called Candida. Candida normally lives on the skin and inside the body, in places such as the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina, without causing any problems. Candidiasis in the mouth and throat is also called thrush or oropharyngeal candidiasis. Candidiasis in the esophagus the tube that connects the throat to the stomach is called esophageal candidiasis or Candida esophagitis. Symptoms of candidiasis in the esophagus usually include pain when swallowing and difficulty swallowing. Contact your healthcare provider if you have symptoms that you think are related to candidiasis in the mouth, throat, or esophagus. Candidiasis in the mouth, throat, or esophagus is uncommon in healthy adults. People who are at higher risk for getting candidiasis in the mouth and throat include babies, especially those younger than 1 month of age, and people with at least one of these factors:
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An estimated 49, people will be diagnosed with oral cavity cancer or oropharyngeal cancer in , according to the American Cancer Society. And 9, of these cases will be fatal. Oral cancer can affect any of the working parts of your mouth or oral cavity, which include the:. The flat cells that cover the surfaces of your mouth, tongue, and lips are called squamous cells. The majority of mouth cancers begin in these cells. A patch on your tongue, gums, tonsils, or the lining of your mouth can signal trouble. A white or red patch inside your mouth or on your lips may be a potential sign of squamous cell carcinoma. There is a wide range in how oral cancer may look and feel. The skin may feel thicker or nodular, or there may be a persistent ulcer or erosion. What is important to note is the persistent nature of these abnormalities.
Oral thrush produces slightly raised, creamy white, sore patches in your mouth or on your tongue. Oral thrush — also called oral candidiasis kan-dih-DIE-uh-sis — is a condition in which the fungus Candida albicans accumulates on the lining of your mouth. Candida is a normal organism in your mouth, but sometimes it can overgrow and cause symptoms. Oral thrush causes creamy white lesions, usually on your tongue or inner cheeks.