HPV+ Throat Cancer New Diagnosis

Hi, my partner has just been diagosed wiith HPV+ throat cancer Stage 4. He is 54 and a heavy smoker.

He will be starting Chemoradiotherapy soon. Has anyone had experiience of this?  Or able to share their similare experiences.

I am so scared that he's at Stage 4 and what they can actually do by that time.

  • Hi, just over 5 years ago I was diagnosed with HPV16 Squamous Cell Carcinoma Stage 3 Tonsil Cancer. I had 6 weeks of Radiotherapy and running alongside that Chemotherapy with Cetuximab. I was 49 years old.

    The treatment is harsh, I am not going to lie. I had to wear a mask for my Radiotherapy so it could target the cancer better. First couple of weeks were fine, but then everything seems to kick in and starts to destroy those cancer cells. It does however, take a huge toll on that area.

    Take one day at a time, it will get tough for your Husband for sure by means of mouth ulcers, no taste, stringy saliva, a sore throat like no other, but he is in the hands of our incredible Clinical Nurse Specialist's and the incredible NHS.  Mine was 5 years ago and I am here to tell the tale. Macmillan produce lots of info too.

    I wish you both well xx

  • Thanks for the reply and so pleased you're doing well.

    Another lump has been discovered so had biopsy on that yesterday. He was told also all his bottom teeth will be removed before treatment starts. The MDT meeting will be next week when hopefully we'll get some answers to the thousands of questions overtaking our heads!

    Take care xx