How does HPV cause oral cancer, and how to prevent it?

Question

Hello doctor,

One of my colleagues has recently been diagnosed with oral cancer. He used to smoke a lot.

Can smoking cause oral cancer?
How does human papillomavirus infection contribute to the development and progression of oral cancer?
What are the most effective prevention and treatment strategies considering this viral etiology?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query.

HPV (human papillomavirus) infection, particularly with high-risk strains such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, is a significant risk factor for the progression of oral cancer. The virus integrates its DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) into the host cell's genome, leading to dysregulation of cell growth and proliferation, which can eventually result in cancerous transformation.

The prevention needs HPV vaccination, safe sexual practices, regular screening, and smoking cessation, as smoking is another significant risk factor for oral cancer. The treatment strategies for HPV-related oral cancer need a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Immunotherapy, which harnesses the body's immune system to target cancer cells, is also a good treatment option. Smoking is a well-established risk factor for oral cancer.

Hope it helps.