The incidence of oropharyngeal cancer, a specific type of throat cancer, has increased dramatically in the West over the past two decades. This has been largely attributed to the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV), leading some to call it an epidemic. Despite the potential protective effect of HPV vaccinations, challenges such as vaccine hesitancy, low coverage, and behavioral trends could undermine its effectiveness. While a gender-neutral vaccination policy has been introduced in several countries, achieving comprehensive disease control still presents significant obstacles. It is important to note that oropharyngeal cancer has now become more common than cervical cancer in the US and the UK. Therefore, increasing awareness and promoting vaccination for both boys and girls can help prevent the spread of HPV and reduce the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer.
