Did the rate of oral and pharyngeal HPV-associated cancer increase in the US between 2007 and 2016?
Between 2007 and 2016, the overall number of new cancer cases in the mouth and throat went up in the United States. This rise was likely caused by an increase in cancers linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that can cause cancer in several parts of the body, including the throat and mouth.
What the research says
Data from the US Cancer Statistics Incidence Analytic Database shows that the combined incidence of oral cavity and pharynx cancers grew during the 2007 to 2016 period. Researchers noted that this increase could be driven by more cases of HPV-associated cancers 3.
HPV-associated cancers make up about 5% of all cancers in the US. These include cancers of the oropharynx, anus, vulva, vagina, penis, and cervix. The specific rise in oral and pharyngeal cancer during those years aligns with broader trends of increasing HPV-related disease in the population 3.
Other studies have looked at HPV-associated cancer rates in specific groups and regions, such as American Indian and Alaska Native populations or the Appalachian region. While these studies focus on different timeframes or locations, they confirm that HPV-associated cancers are a significant public health issue that varies by geography and demographics 46.
What to ask your doctor
- How does HPV affect the risk of developing cancer in my mouth or throat?
- What are the current screening recommendations for HPV-associated head and neck cancer?
- Is the HPV vaccine recommended for me or my children to prevent these cancers?
- What lifestyle changes can help lower my risk of HPV-related cancer?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Infectious Disease and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.