Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) worldwide. HPV infection is associated with several types of cancer, including cervical, anal, penile, and oral cancers.

In this article, we will discuss the relationship between HPV virus and oral cancer risk.

What is HPV?

HPV is a group of more than 200 related viruses. It is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. Most people with HPV do not develop symptoms or health problems. In most cases, the immune system clears the virus within two years.

However, in some cases, HPV can cause cancer.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in the mouth, throat, or tongue. The most common type of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. Symptoms of oral cancer can include:.

White or red patches in the mouth
Persistent mouth sores
A lump or thickening in the cheek
Pain or difficulty swallowing
Changes in speech

HPV and Oral Cancer Risk

There are several risk factors for oral cancer, including tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and a weakened immune system. However, recent research has shown that HPV infection is also a significant risk factor for oral cancer.

Studies have found that HPV is detectable in up to 70% of oropharyngeal cancers, which are cancers that develop in the tonsils, base of the tongue, or lining of the throat. In contrast, HPV is only detectable in 3-5% of other types of oral cancer.

Research has also found that HPV-related oral cancer is more common in men than women and is most commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 45 and 65.

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HPV Strains and Oral Cancer

There are more than 100 different strains of HPV, and not all of them are associated with cancer. Of the HPV strains that are associated with cancer, two strains stand out as the most common: HPV-16 and HPV-18.

Research has found that HPV-16 is the strain most commonly associated with oral cancer. HPV-18 is more commonly associated with cervical cancer.

The best way to prevent HPV-related oral cancer is to get vaccinated against HPV. The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection with HPV-16 and HPV-18.

The vaccine is approved for both males and females and is recommended for all children between the ages of 9 and 12.

It is also important to practice safe sex and use protection during sexual activity. This can reduce the risk of HPV transmission and lower the risk of HPV-related oral cancer.

Treatment for HPV-related oral cancer is similar to treatment for other types of oral cancer. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The specific treatment plan will depend on the location and stage of the cancer.

Conclusion

HPV infection is a significant risk factor for oral cancer. HPV-related oral cancer is more common in men than women and is most commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 45 and 65.

Getting vaccinated against HPV and practicing safe sex can reduce the risk of HPV transmission and lower the risk of HPV-related oral cancer.