Practice Safe Sex—In All Its Forms

Oral cancer is on the rise even though smoking and chewing tobacco use is decreasing. Why? It's believed to be due to an increase in people engaging in oral sex. Many people think of oral sex as inherently safe sex, but it isn't. Many kinds of STDs can be spread through oral sex, as can HPV, which causes cancer. There's currently a vaccine against HPV-related cervical cancer but it is only available for women. However, both men and women can get HPV-related oral cancer and must take steps to protect themselves. Learn more about how to protect yourself at U.S. News & World Report.