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Questions and Answers
HPV is the second most common sexually transmitted virus.
HPV is the second most common sexually transmitted virus.
True (A)
Early detection and screenings of oropharyngeal cancers can help increase survivability.
Early detection and screenings of oropharyngeal cancers can help increase survivability.
True (A)
Oropharyngeal cancers are primarily located in the lungs.
Oropharyngeal cancers are primarily located in the lungs.
False (B)
Approximately 12% of worldwide cancers are associated with HPV.
Approximately 12% of worldwide cancers are associated with HPV.
Oropharyngeal cancer causes more than 50,000 deaths per year in the US.
Oropharyngeal cancer causes more than 50,000 deaths per year in the US.
Oral cancer screenings should only be conducted by a physician and not by a dentist.
Oral cancer screenings should only be conducted by a physician and not by a dentist.
It is advisable to examine the inner lining of the cheeks when checking for oral cancer.
It is advisable to examine the inner lining of the cheeks when checking for oral cancer.
Getting an HPV vaccine is not related to the risk of oropharyngeal cancer.
Getting an HPV vaccine is not related to the risk of oropharyngeal cancer.
Only the lips and gums are necessary areas to check for abnormalities during a self-exam for oral cancer.
Only the lips and gums are necessary areas to check for abnormalities during a self-exam for oral cancer.
Patients should postpone concerns about oral abnormalities until their next scheduled check-up.
Patients should postpone concerns about oral abnormalities until their next scheduled check-up.
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Study Notes
Understanding HPV and Oral Cancers
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most prevalent sexually transmitted virus.
- Most HPV infections are harmless and resolve without treatment.
- HPV is associated with various cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers.
HPV and Cancer Statistics
- Annually, 14 million new HPV infections occur in the US.
- HPV is linked to 12% of all cancers worldwide, including oral, cervical, and penile cancers.
- Oropharyngeal cancer diagnoses in the US exceed 53,000 each year, with a mortality rate of one person per hour.
Oropharyngeal Cancers Defined
- Oropharyngeal cancers develop in the mouth, particularly involving the:
- Tonsils
- Back third of the tongue
- Side and back walls of the throat
- Soft palate
Prevention and Screening Recommendations
- Request oral and pharyngeal cancer screenings during dental and medical check-ups.
- Regularly examine your mouth for irregularities; seek medical advice for any concerning changes.
- Consider receiving the HPV vaccine for preventative measures against HPV-related cancers.
Regions of the Mouth to Examine
- Key areas to inspect during self-exams include:
- Lips
- Gums
- Sides of the tongue
- Inner cheeks
- Roof of the mouth
- Floor of the mouth (under the tongue)
- Back of the throat
Additional Resources
- CDC's information on HPV and oropharyngeal cancer
- Oral Cancer Foundation's HPV facts
- Risk factors associated with oral cancer
- American Dental Association (ADA) on oral cancer screening
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) for oral cancer self-exams
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