HPV-related oral cancer on the increase
Observance emphasizes the importance of making oral cancer screening part of the dental exam routine.
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, an annual observation that underscores the fact that early detection of oral cancer can decrease morbidity and increase long-term survival.
The observance also emphasizes the importance of making oral cancer screenings part of the dental exam routine.
This is especially true given that due to human papillomavirus infection, head and neck cancers are occurring in those in whom the typical risk factors of cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption may not be present.
HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer has risen over the past two decades, while oral cancer linked to tobacco and alcohol use has declined over the same time period, said James Mancini, D.M.D., ADA Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention chair.
Over the past half-dozen years, the ADA has engaged in ever-increasing research and advocacy to protect the public’s health through its efforts supporting HPV vaccination and head and neck cancer screening.
The National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research provides a protocol for dental practitioners for an oral cancer examination based on the standardized oral examination method recommended by the World Health Organization. The NIDCR also provides the examination protocol in poster form and has a pamphlet on oral cancer for patients as well as a patient education resource for oral cancer and the oral cancer exam. These items are not copyrighted and can be reproduced freely.
The ADA has additional free on-demand resources recorded last year related to oral cancer and HPV at ADA CE Online:
- Preventing HPV Cancers in Action Part 1: The Critical Role of the Dentist.
- Preventing HPV Cancers in Action Part 2: Dentists As Vaccinators.
- Preventing HPV Cancers in Action Part 3: ‘Building Blocs’ — Medical-Dental Collaboration Models and More.
For more information on oral cancer and ADA guidelines, visit ADA.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/evidence-based-dental-research/oral-cancer-guideline .
