Tuesday, September 4, 2012

HPV can be linked to Mouth and Throat Cancer

There is a growing body of research that shows that human papillomavirus is a common and increasing cause of oropharyngeal cancer.
Although the primary risk factors for those cancers remain tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, HPV infection is now associated with some 10,000 cases of oropharyngeal (mouth and throat) cancer diagnosed each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In April 2012, the CDC reported that oropharyngeal cancer is the second most diagnosed of cancers associated with HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection. Not all types of HPV causes cancer, but many of the 40 known strains of HPV can also infect the mouth and throat.
The best way to prevent mouth and throat cancer is to avoid tobacco and limit alcohol use. Regular dental check-ups that include an examination of the entire head and neck are essential to identify cancerous and pre-cancerous signs and symptoms.
The following federal agencies can provide more information about HPV infection:
This article taken from: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/hpv-and-oral-cancer.aspx