The Link Between HPV And Oral Cancer

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a small-sized DNA virus that enters the body through a cut or small tear in the skin and commonly causes warts or skin growths.

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. More than a hundred types of HPV can spread through sexual contact and mouth and throat areas.

There are low-risk HPV infections, usually genital warts, but the high-risk infections can lead to cancer of the genitals and the throat, called oropharyngeal cancer.

Oropharyngeal cancer starts when the cancer cells grow out of control in the middle part of the throat, just behind the oral cavity.

Within the last twenty years, oropharyngeal cancer from HPV has risen from less than 20% to more than 70% in the U.S.

Finding out if you are at risk can be a helpful preventative tool.

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

The primary risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use and alcohol consumption, but another very prevalent danger is HPV.

●HPV16 - This type of HPV is the most often linked to cancer of the oropharynx.

●Gender - Oral cancer is more prevalent in men versus women, but both genders are vulnerable.

●Oral Health - Poor oral hygiene is another risk factor due to the changes that occur with the normal bacteria in the mouth, which is why taking appropriate care is vital to optimal oral health.

Knowing the risk factors is essential, but it is also good to find the location of oral cancers due to HPV.

Location of Oral Cancers Due to HPV

HPV-related oral cancers typically develop in the throat, behind the tongue, base of the tongue, or the tonsils. There are approximately 54,000 adults in the U.S. that are diagnosed with oral cancer each year.

The HPV and Cancer Connection

HPV is not caused by casual kissing on the cheek or even sharing a drink with someone. Some people never even know that they have it because much of the time there are no symptoms. In many cases, it can clear up on its own within two years with the help of your immune system. In some cases, the virus can progress and lead to cancer. Which will need a check up with a physician, a prescription, and medication to help you fight the battle.

There is a physical change that takes place with the cells when infected with HPV. If the immune system cannot fight it off, those changes can then lead to tumors.

With oral HPV these tumors usually develop in the throat, at the back of the roof of the mouth, near the tonsils, or at the base of the tongue. This process can take years to evolve before cancer develops, which is why catching it early is critical.

There are also signs and symptoms regarding the connection between HPV and oral cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of HPV-Related Oral Cancer

●Persistent Sore Throat - Throat pain, soreness, or irritation that won’t go away.

●Pain When Swallowing - Difficulty swallowing, chewing, speaking, or moving your jaw and tongue.

●Swollen Lymph Nodes - The cervical lymph nodes are located along the front, back, and sides of the neck area, as well as under the jaw, chin, and behind the ears.

●Earaches - This symptom is due to the inflamed lymph nodes behind the ears.

These signs and symptoms do not necessarily mean you have oral cancer, but if they persist for more than two weeks, you should see your healthcare provider.

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent oral cancer from occurring.

Preventative Measures

One of the most important tools for prevention is taking care of our teeth. Good oral health affects overall health. Get regular checkups, routine teeth cleaning at your dentist, and oral cancer screenings during dental visits.

Early detection is critical, so seeing your dentist regularly can be one of the best preventative measures you can take.