When you kiss, it triggers a cascade of sensations – from the slippery, mouthful of saliva to the excitement watts generated in your brain. Lol.
Kissing, a universal expression of affection, manifests in various forms worldwide.
From the simple “air-kiss” with no contact to a gentle peck on the cheeks, or more intimate kisses involving prolonged lip-to-lip contact and saliva exchange, kissing serves as a conduit of connection between individuals.
However, it’s important to note that kissing can potentially transmit various viral diseases, including sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV, hepatitis, and herpes, through saliva exchange.
Can You Contract HPV From Kissing?
The question arises: can HPV be transmitted through kissing? The answer is both yes and no. While light kissing is unlikely to spread the virus, intimate open-mouth kissing, especially with a sexual partner, may pose a risk of transmission.
Nevertheless, the scientific evidence regarding HPV transmission through kissing remains limited and may not be conclusive enough to alter practices. Studies have shown that the prevalence of oral HPV transmission is relatively low, with only 2.9% reported in a cohort study of men.
However, the risk of HPV transmission increases in individuals with multiple sexual partners who engage in oral sex and open-mouth kissing.
It’s essential to understand that everyone is exposed to HPV, and complete elimination of transmission risk is challenging. Most HPV strains, even those linked to cancer, typically clear within 12 months without progressing to cancerous stages.
While the prevalence of oral HPV has been associated with multiple sexual and open-mouth kissing partners, kissing alone is not considered a high-risk activity for HPV transmission or oral cancers.
Thread With Caution
Approximately 70% of oropharyngeal cancers, which include cancers of the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils, are attributed to HPV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates thousands of new HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer cases annually in the United States, affecting both men and women.
HPV stands as the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. and some other countries and with over 100 types, about 40 of which can spread through sexual contact to genital areas, as well as the mouth and throat. Around a dozen HPV types are linked to various cancers, underscoring the importance of vigilance in sexual practices and HPV prevention.
So, exercise caution when engaging in deep kissing, as it may pose a potential risk of HPV transmission. Stay informed and prioritize safe sexual practices to minimize the risk of HPV-related health complications.
