Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. More than 40 million adults have HPV. When HPV affects the mouth, it’s called oral HPV. Oral HPV infections can lead to head and neck cancer.
The increase in oral HPV has caused a significant increase in HPV-related head and neck cancer—especially in younger adults. An estimated 70 percent of oropharyngeal cancer (cancer that affects the base of the tongue, tonsils and back of the throat) now result from HPV infections.
How Does HPV Cause Cancer?
There are many different types of HPV infection, but only some types can lead to cancer. The majority of people with HPV do not get cancer. But the infection still leads to more than 30,000 cancer cases every year in the U.S.
Even though the majority of sexually active adults do get HPV, most clear the infection. But if your immune system is unable to get rid of HPV infection, it can lead to problems over time. A long-lasting HPV infection can change normal cells into cancer cells.
HPV infections can affect the genitals or the mouth. Genital HPV can lead to cancer in the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis or anus. Oral HPV infections can lead to throat, tongue or tonsil cancer.
How Do We Treat HPV-related Oropharyngeal Cancer?
HPV-related head and neck cancer has a very high cure rate. And thanks to our advanced therapies, we can not only effectively treat these cancers, but also help preserve your quality of life.
Traditional surgery and radiation can have long-lasting effects on your ability to swallow, eat and speak. Our low-dose radiation and proton therapy result in fewer side effects for most patients. And by using precision TransOral Robotic Surgery (TORS), our surgeons are able to effectively remove tumors without harming healthy surrounding tissue.
Request an Appointment
To make an appointment at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, call 717-544-9400 or request an appointment using our online form.