Man, 47, Shares Journey From Swollen Gland to HPV-Related Throat Cancer & Full Taste Recovery
Utrecht, Netherlands – A 47-year-old man, Bas, is sharing his story of overcoming throat cancer, hoping to offer a beacon of positivity for others facing similar diagnoses. His journey began with a seemingly minor symptom – a swollen gland in his neck – and ultimately led to a diagnosis of HPV-related throat cancer, followed by a rigorous course of chemotherapy and radiation.
Bas first noticed the issue in 2024, observing that “one throat almond was bigger than the other.” Initially, his doctor reassured him it was likely “nothing crazy,” and a blood test was ordered. However, further inquiry, including a CT scan and biopsy, proved necessary.
Due to his age and healthy lifestyle – Bas doesn’t smoke and drinks moderately – doctors at UMC Utrecht, an academic hospital, assembled a team to investigate. “I was too young for ‘normal’ throat cancer,” Bas explained. A viewing operation revealed the cancer originated in his throat almond, linked to a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. He described feeling “happy” with this diagnosis, learning that HPV-related throat cancer generally carries a better prognosis than other forms. He admitted he hadn’t previously known that HPV could led to cancer in areas beyond the sexual organs.
The treatment plan was aggressive. Bas underwent 35 radiation treatments combined with seven rounds of chemotherapy, receiving chemo on Mondays and radiation for the remainder of the week. The treatment took a meaningful toll. “It was a severe treatment and I got more and more problems with side effects during the treatment process, so my throat was just broken at one point,” he said. Swallowing became increasingly tough, eventually to the point where he required liquid nourishment to maintain his weight. He initially lost his sense of taste in the area of radiation, but it eventually spread, leaving him unable to taste anything at all. “I could hardly swallow or drink so much in my mouth.”
Now cancer-free, Bas felt compelled to share his experience. “I think it is important to share my story becuase at the time I was looking for ‘positive’ stories,” he stated. While acknowledging the unpleasantness of the treatment, he emphasized a crucial detail frequently enough missing from online accounts: “I did get my taste fully back.Something I could not find in all those stories on the internet. It never seemed to be back from that, but I found it all.” He also revealed that his initial concerns were initially dismissed by his doctor, and he later received an apology for the oversight.
Bas’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of persistent medical investigation and offers hope to those navigating the challenges of a cancer diagnosis, notably highlighting the possibility of full recovery even after significant side effects.
