Can kissing transmit nasopharyngeal cancer between spouses?

Mar 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Qi Zhirong
Introduction
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a type of malignant tumor that primarily occurs in the mucosal epithelium of the nasopharynx. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma may be associated with multiple factors such as genetic predisposition, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, and environmental factors, but it is not an infectious disease caused by a single pathogen. The diseased cells of this condition are mainly localized at the site of the cancerous lesion and do not spread to others through droplets, contact, or other means, as occurs with the common cold or influenza.

Generally, kissing between spouses when one has nasopharyngeal cancer will not lead to transmission. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Nasopharyngeal cancer is a type of malignant tumor that primarily occurs in the mucosal epithelium of the nasopharynx. Its development may be associated with multiple factors such as genetic predisposition, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, and environmental factors, but it is not an infectious disease caused by a single pathogen. The diseased cells are mainly localized at the tumor site and do not spread to others via droplets or physical contact, as occurs in common colds or influenza. Therefore, if the patient does not have other infectious complications, normal kissing between spouses is generally safe.

Although nasopharyngeal cancer itself is not contagious, during treatment the patient may become more susceptible to infections due to a weakened immune system. If the patient also suffers from oral ulcers, herpes, or other infectious diseases, kissing may transmit these infections. In such cases, direct mouth-to-mouth contact should be avoided until the infection is effectively controlled.

To ensure the health and safety of both partners, it is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene habits in daily life and pay attention to the patient's physical condition and treatment progress.