regards to the increase in HPV-related Oral Cancer. So what is HPV?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. HPV is spread through direct sexual contact to genital areas, as well as the mouth and throat. Most people will clear HPV within one to two years, but HPV infection persists in some people.
HPV infects the mouth and throat causing oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the mouth, back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils). HPV accounts for 70% of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States.
Cancer may take years to develop after initial infection. It is unclear if having HPV alone is enough to cause oropharyngeal cancers, or if other factors (such as smoking or chewing tobacco) interact with HPV to cause these cancers.
What Are the Symptoms of Oropharyngeal Cancer?
Symptoms may include sores/ulcers that do not heal, a long-lasting sore throat, earaches, hoarseness, swollen lymph nodes, pain when swallowing, and unexplained weight loss. Some people have no symptoms. If you have any symptoms that worry you, be sure to see your doctor right away.
Can the HPV Vaccine Prevent Oropharyngeal Cancers?
The HPV vaccine was developed to prevent cervical and other cancers of the reproductive system. The vaccine protects against the types of HPV that can cause oropharyngeal cancers, so it may also prevent oropharyngeal cancers. But studies have not been done to show this.
CDC recommends that 11- to 12-year-old boys and girls get two doses of HPV vaccine, with the second dose 6-12months apart from the first. It is also recommended that girls and boys, and men and women through age 26 years get the vaccine if they were not vaccinated when they were 11-12years old.
What Are Other Ways to Lower My Risk of Getting HPV or Oropharyngeal Cancer?
Alcohol and Tobacco: Alcohol and tobacco products may contribute to oropharyngeal cancers. Don’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco products, and avoid smoke from other people’s cigarettes. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
Condoms: When used consistently and correctly, male and female condoms can lower the chance that HPV is passed from one person to another.
At Sun Family Dental, we are not only committed to giving you your best smile, but we are also devoted to your family’s overall wellness. We take a holistic approach to your dental care, which includes an oral cancer screening as a part of your oral exam. April is Oral, Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Month, and a great reminder to schedule your Screening appointment. Click here to schedule your appointment or call us at 678.890.2555.
Also, click on the link to learn how you can do self-exams in-between your 6 month dental visits. http://checkyourmouth.org/