HPV16 IS THE LEADING CAUSE OF ALL OROPHARYNGEAL CANCERS!
Ricky Rubin
HPV is a double-stranded DNA virus that infects epithelial cells of the skin and mucosa. There are over 200 HPV strains, but HPV-16 is the LEADING cause of oropharyngeal cancer. 80% of Americans will acquire HPV in their lifetime with 99% clearing the infection without consequence and without symptoms. White males, non-smokers 35-55 yrs are the highest risk population (4:1 females). The most effective way to screen for HPV related oral and oropharyngeal cancer is a visual and tactile exam by the dentist or dental hygienist. The most common areas orally are the uvula, tongue base, and tonsils.
