The Role of HPV in Lip and Oral Cancers: What You Need to Know
Did you know, according to a report by the National Oral Cancer Registry, oral cancers contribute to nearly 5% of all global cancers cases, while in India, Oral cancers contribute to nearly 40% of all cancer cases. And this spike in the graph is highly because of the large scale consumption of Tobacco. According to another report by www.cancercontrol.info, India witnesses an average of 1,35,000 oral cancer cases every year, and nearly 75,000 deaths each year. The mortality rates in these cases are higher because of three major reasons that we discussed in our earlier article, that is Accessibility, Economic burden, & Proper Awareness. Without proper awareness, there is a delay in diagnosis, leading to discovery of the disease at an advanced stage, where things generally turn fatal.
Not just tobacco, alcohol also evenly helps in contributing to oral cancer cases, globally. However, apart from tobacco and alcohol, research says, Human Papillomavirus, commonly called as HPV is also a leading cause of Oral cancer. Understanding HPV, its role in causing cancer, diagnosis and treatment can help in prevention, early detection & timely treatment.
What is HPV?
HPV or Human Papillomavirus are a group of viruses, transmitted through sexual and non sexual contact, of which many are classified as ‘Low Risk’, while others are classified ‘High Risk’ as they lead to developing cancer. Though HPV is more commonly associated with cervical cancer, it can also affect your mouth, throat, lips etc. Certain high risk HPV strains like HPV-16, if persistently causes infection, can lead to cancer.
HPV can spread through skin-to-skin and mucosal contact can also transmit through oral sex and other intimate contact. HPV, ones in your mouth, can mix with your oral DNA cells, and damage your normal life cycle. This damage in time can lead to uncontrollable growth and formation of cancer cells especially in lips, tongue, tonsils and oropharynx.
While earlier tobacco and alcohol were said to be the major cause of lip & oral cancers, today, HPV-related oral cancers are increasing and have become a common issue, and that to among younger generations, especially people below 40. Though HPV-positive oral cancers respond better to treatment, the major challenge still lies in early detection.
Early Signs & Symptoms of HPV Positive Oral & Lip cancers:
Though HPV-positive oral cancers are treatable, one needs to be aware of the various signs or symptoms:
- Persistent mouth soars or ulcers
- Lumps in lip, tongue or throat,
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Unexplained pain or bleeding in mouth
- Changes in voice or persistent sore throat.
Remember, if these symptoms last more than 2 weeks, you need to immediately seek medical advice.
As it is said, “prevention is better than cure”, likewise you should get yourself vaccinated. HPV vaccinations are highly preventable. These vaccines, when given at a recommended age, highly reduce the chances or risk of infection. Also it is always wise to practise safe intimate behaviours, avoid tobacco, alcohol etc and go for regular oral check ups. Though HPV is rising, it is preventable. Right awareness, vaccinations and early diagnosis can save lives.