Many people may not be aware that a sexually transmitted disease can make one more susceptible to oral cancer. Education on the topic of oral cancer is essential for our patients’ prevention. This article will discuss more details on the relationship between oral cancer and HPV, the Human Papilloma Virus.
Human Papilloma Virus, also known as HPV, is a prevalent sexually transmitted disease that an infected partner can transmit through vaginal, anal or oral sexual contact. Not everyone who is exposed to the virus will become infected with HPV. In most cases, individuals may never know they have been exposed because they have no symptoms.
HPV is known to have different strains. Some strains form warts on the genitals, rectum or oral cavity. These are considered “Low-Risk” strains of HPV. Other strains produce no symptoms and can be completely undetected. These are considered “High-Risk” strains of HPV.
As with many varieties of viruses, awareness of their presence only occurs when symptoms arise. Viral infection is apparent when a person’s immune system is weakened, and the once-dormant virus becomes active.
In low-risk cases of HPV, an individual’s immune system can typically destroy an active virus over a short period. However, this is not the case with high-risk varieties of HPV. An active high-risk case of HPV can be missed unless someone is diligent about completing cancer screenings
As a result, high-risk HPV, specifically the strain HP16, has a higher incidence of malignancy. This results from the cellular changes that occur over time when the body cannot rid itself of the HPV infection.
The relationship between HPV and oral cancer is a topic of growing concern in the medical and dental communities. High-risk HPV has been linked to an increasing number of oral cancer cases. Research has shown the DNA of the HP16 strain of HPV in most oral cancer cases and that 60-70% of oral cancers are related to HPV infection.
It’s important to note that not everyone who has HPV will develop oral cancer, and the majority of HPV infections do not lead to cancer. However, research suggests that the presence of HPV in the oral cavity can be a risk factor for developing certain types of oral cancer, particularly in the oropharynx (the middle part of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils).
Unlike most cancers where advanced age is considered a risk factor, HPV-related oral cancers in younger individuals who may not have the traditional risk factors are on the rise.
Recent studies have shown this could be due to an increased practice of oral sex in teens due to education and awareness of STDs and potential unwanted pregnancies. Additionally, while the body can absorb most high-risk HPV cases without awareness of the person infected, certain strains affecting the oral cavity have been shown to recur.
HPV is so prevalent that it is believed any sexually active individual will be exposed to it at some point – at any age. Engaging in oral sex or sexual activities with multiple partners or having a history of sexually transmitted diseases can put a person at higher risk.
Certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking and heavy alcohol use, can contribute to an increased risk of developing HPV-related oral cancer. It’s also important to note that individuals with a weakened immune system, whether due to medical conditions or medications, may be at higher risk for persistent HPV infection, which can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer.
Given that HPV can affect young and old, and both men and women, it’s crucial for individuals to be aware of the link between HPV and oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups that include screenings for oral cancer can aid in early detection and treatment.
If you are a parent with an adolescent or a young adult, speak to your primary care doctor about becoming vaccinated for HPV. It is recommended that vaccination occur before an individual becomes sexually active. Both girls and boys are recommended to receive the vaccine.
Avoid tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of oral cancer of any kind. Remember to stay informed about HPV, practice healthy lifestyle habits, and seek early medical intervention if any concerning symptoms arise. Most of all, stay healthy!
The Human Papilloma Virus may not concern you now, but you never know if it could be detected in yourself or someone you care about. Your trusted and knowledgeable dentist at Bonham Sunshine Dental and Implant Center is one of the places that regularly screen our patients for oral cancer. Early detection is critical to preventing disease progression!
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