Expert reveals why HPV-related throat cancer is rising among men due to oral sex
Why Men Are More Often Affected by HPV-Related Oral Cancers, According to Experts
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world. Many people who carry the virus never develop symptoms, but in some cases it can lead to genital warts or certain types of cancer years later.
Health authorities report that there are more than 200 different strains of HPV. While most infections clear naturally within about two years, roughly 14 strains are considered high-risk because they can cause precancerous changes and cancer.
In recent years, researchers have noticed a concerning trend: men appear to develop HPV-related cancers of the mouth and throat more often than women.
How common is HPV?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States.
Estimates suggest that:
Around 10% of men carry the virus
About 3.6% of women carry it
Most people who contract HPV never know they have it because the body’s immune system often clears the virus naturally.
However, in some cases the infection can persist and eventually lead to cancer.
HPV and throat cancer
Certain high-risk HPV strains are known to cause cancers in the back of the throat, including the tonsils and base of the tongue. These cancers are collectively known as oropharyngeal cancers.
Experts note that it can take many years — sometimes decades — for HPV infection to develop into cancer.
A widely discussed case involved Michael Douglas, who was diagnosed with stage-four throat cancer in 2010. The actor later stated that HPV infection could have been a contributing factor, while also acknowledging smoking and alcohol as potential influences.
Why are men more affected?
According to cancer epidemiologist Karis Betts from Cancer Research UK, several factors may explain why HPV-related oral cancers appear more frequently in men.
One key reason is the interaction between HPV and other risk factors historically more common among men.
Betts explained that head and neck cancers — including those linked to HPV — have traditionally been more common in men because of behaviors such as smoking and heavy alcohol consumption.
These habits can damage tissues in the mouth and throat, making them more vulnerable to cancer development when HPV infection is present.
Betts also noted that certain populations face higher risk levels. For example:
Men who have sex with men have a higher risk compared with heterosexual men.
Straight women who have sex with men show higher risk than women who have sex exclusively with women.
Because of this increased risk, HPV vaccination programs in some countries extend eligibility for certain groups up to around age 40.
The role of vaccination
Although there is no cure for HPV, vaccination can protect against the most dangerous strains of the virus.
Health experts emphasize that the vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus, which is why it is commonly recommended for adolescents.
Vaccination, along with regular screening programs such as cervical screening, remains one of the most effective strategies for reducing HPV-related cancers.
Lifestyle factors still matter
Experts stress that HPV infection alone does not automatically lead to cancer. Other lifestyle factors play a significant role in determining risk.
Reducing tobacco use and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly lower the likelihood of developing head and neck cancers.
Betts noted that avoiding smoking and moderating alcohol intake may have an even greater impact on reducing cancer risk than worrying about HPV infection alone.
Warning signs of throat cancer
Medical specialists, including those at Cleveland Clinic, recommend seeking medical advice if the following symptoms persist:
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A persistent sore throat
Pain or difficulty swallowing
Trouble opening the mouth fully or moving the tongue
Unexplained weight loss
Ongoing ear pain without a clear cause
A lump in the throat or mouth
Swelling in the neck
Coughing up blood
A white patch in the mouth or on the tongue that does not disappear
A reminder about prevention
HPV infections are extremely common, and in most cases the immune system clears them without long-term health problems.
The Untapped Bounty: Unlocking the Nutritional Riches of Acorns
In the tapestry of autumn’s bounty, amidst the vibrant hues of falling leaves, lies a humble, often overlooked treasure: the acorn. This modest nut, the fruit of the majestic oak tree, has nourished a wide array of creatures and cultures throughout history. Yet, in modern times, its value has been largely forgotten, overshadowed by more conventional food sources. This article aims to rediscover the acorn’s potential, not only as a sustainable food source but as a powerhouse of nutrition and health benefits. As we delve into the world of acorns, we uncover the secrets to transforming these nuts into a palatable delight, along with exploring the myriad benefits they offer. Embracing acorns in our diet is not merely a nod to our foraging ancestors but a step forward in our journey towards sustainable living and nutritional wellness.
The Nutritional and Health Benefits of Acorns
Acorns are more than just a survival food; they are a testament to nature’s abundance, offering a wealth of health benefits that deserve recognition. Here is a comprehensive list of the many virtues these nuts hold:
Rich Nutrient Profile: Acorns are a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, which are vital for immune function and skin health, respectively. They also offer a good dose of B vitamins, crucial for energy metabolism and brain health.
Mineral-Rich: These nuts are a source of important minerals such as potassium, which regulates blood pressure; calcium, essential for bone health; and magnesium, necessary for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body.
High in Fiber: With a high fiber content, acorns can aid in digestion, helping to prevent constipation and promoting a healthy gut. Fiber is also key for maintaining a healthy weight and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Antioxidant Properties: Acorns contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Heart Health: The unsaturated fats in acorns can contribute to a healthy heart by lowering bad cholesterol levels and potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Acorn flour offers a gluten-free alternative for baking and cooking, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Energy Boosting: Being energy-dense, acorns can provide a sustained release of energy, making them an excellent addition to an active lifestyle.
Sustainable Food Source: Foraging for acorns encourages a connection with nature and promotes a sustainable approach to food, reducing reliance on processed and imported goods.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Incorporating acorns into modern diets honors the traditions of many indigenous and ancient cultures for whom acorns were a staple food, fostering a deeper appreciation for our natural world and its history.
Versatile Culinary Uses: From flours to oils, acorns offer a versatile base for a variety of culinary creations, enabling the exploration of new flavors and textures in cooking and baking.
Economic Advantage: Foraging acorns can offer economic benefits, reducing grocery bills and fostering self-sufficiency.
Weight Management: The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein in acorns can help in feeling fuller longer, aiding in weight management efforts.
The benefits of acorns extend far beyond their nutritional value, encompassing environmental sustainability, economic savings, and a reconnection with nature’s rhythms. As we turn to the practical aspects of harvesting and preparing acorns, we embark on a journey not just to rediscover an ancient food source but to embrace a lifestyle that values the bounty nature provides. Stay tuned for the next segment, where we will explore how to unlock the edible potential of acorns, ensuring they can be enjoyed safely and deliciously.
Harvesting and Selecting Acorns
The first step in utilizing acorns is gathering them, a task best undertaken in the early autumn when they are ripe and plentiful. Look for acorns that are firm, without any holes or cracks, as these imperfections may indicate the presence of insects or rot. Green acorns are immature and should be left to ripen, while those that are brown and detach easily from their caps are ready for use. It’s a sustainable practice to gather from the ground, leaving enough acorns for wildlife and the regeneration of the oak forest.
Processing Acorns to Remove Tannins
Shelling: Begin by removing the acorns from their shells. This can be done manually or with the aid of a nutcracker. It’s a labor-intensive step but crucial for accessing the nut meat within.
Leaching Out the Tannins: The most critical step in making acorns edible is leaching out the tannins, which are compounds that give raw acorns their bitter taste and can be harmful in large quantities. There are two primary methods for leaching: cold and hot leaching.
Cold Leaching: This method involves soaking the shelled acorns in cold water. The water should be changed when it becomes discolored, approximately every 12 to 24 hours, until the water remains clear, indicating that the tannins have been removed. This process can take several days to a week, depending on the acorn variety.
Hot Leaching: Hot leaching is faster than cold leaching but requires more active management. Boil the acorns in water, and change the water when it turns dark, repeating this process until the water remains mostly clear. This method can remove the tannins in a matter of hours.
Drying: After leaching, the acorns need to be dried to prevent mold and prepare them for grinding. Spread the acorns on a baking sheet and dry them in an oven at a low temperature, in a dehydrator, or air-dry them in a sunny, well-ventilated area.
Making Acorn Flour
Once dried, the acorns can be ground into flour using a food processor, blender, or hand grinder. The resulting flour should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or frozen for extended storage. Acorn flour can be used as a substitute for traditional flours in baking, offering a nutty flavor and nutritional boost to bread, pancakes, and other baked goods.
Incorporating acorns into our diets is a journey back to the roots of human sustenance, a nod to the wisdom of our ancestors who relied on the natural world for their dietary needs. This journey is not just about adding a new ingredient to our pantry but about embracing a deeper connection with nature, understanding the cycles of growth and renewal, and appreciating the abundance that surrounds us. As we integrate acorns into our meals, we partake in a tradition that spans centuries and cultures, celebrating the oak tree’s gift and its enduring significance to both the environment and our health. Let the humble acorn inspire you to explore, innovate, and appreciate the simple, yet profound, pleasures of foraging and feasting from the land.
