In years past smoking has been the number one cause of oral cancer. Over the past 10 years the number of people smoking has been on a steady decline while the number or new oral cancer victims has been holding steady if not increasing.
It has now been established that there is another major causative agent in oral cancer; HPV.
The human papilloma virus (HPV) is one of the most common virus groups and it affects skin and mucosa. There are over 120 different types, most are very harmless and easily treatable.
Two types are known to cause a vast majority of cervical cancers.
In the oral environment HPV 16 is linked to oral cancer.
It typically manifests in the back of the throat, at the base of the tongue and tonsil area.
This cancer is effecting a younger group of individuals then we saw with tobacco related cancer.
The CDC is recommending
ANYONE OLD ENOUGH TO HAVE ENGAGED IN SEXUAL BEHAVIORS NEEDS TO BE SCREENED ANNUALLY FOR ORAL CANCER
Oral cancer is easier to treat and survive the earlier it is detected.
To schedule a dental exam including an oral cancer screening please contact Rochester Advanced Dentistry 248.656.2020
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