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Oral Cancer from an STI: The HPV Link
25 words:
Smile Tip: 70% of oral cancer cases are caused by genital HPV—the most common STI in the
world. Talk to your doctor AND dentist about your risk for HPV and oral cancer.
100 words:
Oral Cancer from an STI: The HPV Link
By Delta Dental of Washington
Approximately 70% of oral cancer cases are caused by genital human papillomavirus (HPV)—
the same virus that causes cervical cancer. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted
infection (STI) in the US and world. It’s estimated that 90% of adults have been exposed to HPV.
The relationship between HPV infection, sexual activity, and cancer is incredibly complex. To
learn more about your risk for HPV, talk to your doctor. To learn more about your risk for oral
cancer, talk to your dentist.
225 words:
Oral Cancer from an STI: The HPV Link
By Delta Dental of Washington
Over the past decade, oropharynx cancer cases have increased nearly 5 fold. This type of cancer
affects the tonsils and the base of the tongue. Approximately 70% of cases are caused by HPV.
It’s the same virus that causes cervical cancer.
Genital HPV, human papillomavirus, is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in
the U.S. and world, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s estimated
that 90% of adults have been exposed to some form of HPV.
Every sexually active person is at risk for contracting HPV. Most people with HPV don’t know
they’re infected because they never develop symptoms or health problems from it. That’s why
it’s extremely important to practice safe sex and stay on top of your preventive care visits with
your doctor AND dentist.
Your doctor will assess your risks and ensure you receive the proper screenings. Your dentist is
often your first line of defense when it comes to spotting oral cancer. In fact, signs of oral
cancer are one of the things your dentist looks for during a routine exam.
The relationship between HPV infection, sexual activity, and cancer is incredibly complex. To
learn more about your risk for HPV, talk to your doctor. To learn more about your risk for oral
cancer, talk to your dentist.