Steve, IMO you're asking the proverbial $64,000 question! If you do a search for the word alcohol on this forum I think you'll find a number of threads that address it in detail.

Cheryl and Cherri make good points about the irritant effects. But, all things being equal, that should be a temporary issue. For myself here at over 2 years out from treatment I can eat and drink just about anything except extremely spicy food. If I'm reading you right you're talking about the long haul and indeed it's something to consider carefully.

I got 2 opinions from my RO (my main doc) and my MO. The first tells me never to drink again. The second tells me that moderate alcohol consumption shouldn't be a problem since, like you, my cancer was most likely HPV-related. I'd decided to err on the side of caution, reasoning that as much as I love wine and beer, I much prefer breathing.

As a result I haven't had even a drop of alcohol in 2 years. The RO said I could have a glass of champagne on New Year's, for instance. Did it 2 years ago but not last year for some reason. But I have a really fine bottle I was given as a gift in the fridge and might just crack it next week.

Lately though I've been thinking some more. I had a checkup with the MO again a month ago and we discussed the issue and he once again gave me the same opinion. He's a smart guy, a professor at the UCLA School of Medicine and CCC.... but then, my RO is also a very smart gal and I've always trusted her opinions unquestionably. Some day I'd love to get the two of them in the same room!

I will continue to ponder the issue. Maybe others will weigh in. But do check the previous threads.