Dormant STI from Oral Sex Triggered Life-Threatening Throat Cancer After 30 Years
When Jeff Bradford first developed a persistent sore throat in March 2016, he initially attributed it to dust from gym renovations where he worked as a personal trainer. After two weeks of worsening symptoms and frequent aspirin gargling, he consulted his GP, who diagnosed tonsillitis and prescribed antibiotics. When the condition failed to improve, a different doctor conducted a throat swab, suspecting strep throat, and took photographs of the affected area.
From Sore Throat to Cancer Diagnosis
By May 2016, Jeff was urgently referred to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where he described feeling something touching the back of his tongue that made him gag. One month later, in June 2016, he underwent surgery and received a devastating diagnosis: stage three throat cancer. The revelation didn't end there. During a follow-up appointment, doctors informed him the cancer was caused by HPV16, a sexually transmitted infection linked to various cancers, including cervical cancer.
"HPV is caught through sexual transmission, it's normally from oral sex. I was totally shocked it was from that," Jeff, now 62 and living in Forres, Scotland, recalls. "He said 'it's probably been in your body for over 30 years,' that's how long it can stay dormant." Medical professionals explained that his sore throat might have activated the dormant virus, describing it as "just bad luck."
The Treatment Ordeal and Recovery
Jeff, who contracted HPV before meeting his wife Heidi, 58, underwent 35 grueling radiotherapy sessions beginning in August 2016. "Radiotherapy caused really bad burns. It was like someone took a blowtorch to my neck, it was horrible," he describes. Despite the painful treatment, he eventually received the all-clear.
Reflecting on his experience, Jeff emphasizes the importance of addressing symptoms promptly without embarrassment. "I've got no qualms talking about that at all. Everybody does it, don't they? It's a normal, sexual activity with somebody you love," he states. "I think if it's not talked about quite candidly, it'll get brushed under the carpet, and if people are embarrassed to talk about it, they may avoid treatment."
Understanding HPV and Cancer Risks
According to NHS guidance, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) encompasses over 100 viruses that typically cause no symptoms but can lead to genital warts or cancer. The virus affects skin and mucous membranes in areas like the mouth, throat, vagina, and anus. Transmission occurs through skin-to-skin genital contact, vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and sharing sex toys.
Cancers directly associated with HPV include cervical, anal, penile, vulval, vaginal, and certain head and neck cancers. Cancer Research UK lists throat cancer symptoms that warrant medical attention:
- Persistent mouth ulcers or red and white patches
- Ear pain
- Ongoing sore throat
- Neck lumps
- Swallowing difficulties or pain
- Voice changes
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent cough or shortness of breath
- Feeling of something stuck in the throat
- Chronic sore tongue
Jeff's experience serves as a crucial reminder that sexually transmitted infections can remain dormant for decades before manifesting as serious health conditions. His advocacy for open discussion and proactive healthcare underscores the need for greater public awareness about HPV's long-term risks.
