Recent and alarming studies have shown that the HPV virus, mistakenly called the “cervical cancer” virus is strongly associated with cancers of the mouth and throat. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is one of the most common virus groups in the world today affecting the skin and mucosal areas of the body. Over 200 strains of HPV have been identified, and different types are known to infect different parts of the body. The most visible forms of the virus produce warts (papilloma's) on the hands, arms, legs, and other areas of the skin. Most HPV's of this type are very common, harmless, non cancerous, and easily treatable. Unfortunately, because it is largely asymptomatic, HPV can also go undetected for a long time, sometimes until it is too late to treat.

Of concern are the known strains of HPV (HPV 16, 18), which can lead to various cancers of the sexual and reproductive organs, as well as those of the mouth and throat. HPV-Related Oral Cancer encompasses the head and neck, including larynx, esophagus and tonsils. Since there may be typically no symptoms, this cancer is generally detected in its latest stage. Fortunately HPV-Related Oral Cancers have significantly higher survival rates, especially among non-smokers. “For reasons we are not entirely sure of, HPV-Related Cancers respond better to chemotherapy and radiation,” says Gregory Masters, M.D., an oncologist at the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center in Newark, Delaware.

In the news recently, actor Michael Douglas, who is battling Stage IV throat cancer, reportedly tested positive for the HPV virus. This means his wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones, should be tested and is at great risk herself. In fact, leading specialist Dr. Randal Weber, an expert on cancers of the head and neck at Houston’s M D Anderson Center in Texas, urged the 40 year old actress to be tested on a regular basis noting that “she could contract several forms of cancer, including cervical, if she contracts HPV. People who test positive for this must remain vigilant.” Who is at risk?

•Individuals with “traditional” risk factors for oral cancer such as smoking and alcohol.

•Anyone who is sexually active (and keep in mind that the age may be younger than in previous generations).

•Any individual with a family history of oral cancer. As with many cancers, early detection is key and we recommend that, if at risk, you have a discussion with your dentist about having an ORAL HPV Diagnostic Test done.

Because our office—Dr. Gharagozloo specifically—is focused on the oral-systemic connection, our collaboration with Dr. Thomas Nabors, Chief Dental Officer of Oral DNA Labs, has been a match made in heaven. Dr. Nabors originally started researching bacteria found in the mouth to determine how best to treat it. From there, researchers decided to see if there was a genetic component and began to test DNA.

Oral DNA Labs became innovators in personalized diagnosis and originally offered 2 tests: one to determine the best antibiotic treatment to treat periodontal (gum) disease and one to test DNA to see susceptibility of periodontal disease. When Quest Diagnostics heard they were testing Oral DNA, aware of the rise in HPV diagnoses, they approached Oral DNA labs to develop an HPV test.

The test is relatively low in cost and totally painless. You will be asked to rinse and gargle with a saline solution that will be collected and sent to the Oral DNA facilities for testing. Once the results are received, typically within 7 days, we will schedule a time to review them with you. From there a plan will be developed to get or keep you healthy. Additional information can be found at oraldna.com.

During the month of April, many dental offices, through collaboration with the Oral Cancer Foundation, will be conducting free screenings. Check our website marygdds.com and schedule an appointment to get tested. It just might save your life.

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MONICA HOPKINS & DR. MARY GHARAGOZLOO: Monica Hopkins has served as Practice Administrator for Dr. Mary Gharagozloo for 4 of the over 10 years they have worked together. They have collaborated on Dental Health articles published in local magazines. Monica lives in Northern VAwith her husband and four children. Dr. Gharagozloo lives in Potomac, MD with her husband and 2 kids with fur, Izzy and Bella. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it