Epidemiology of human papillomavirus-related head and neck cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is now recognized to cause a subset of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). Although excessive tobacco and alcohol use continue to be important risk factors for HNSCC, epidemiologic studies suggest that more than 25% of HNSCC are now caused by HPV. The incidence of HPV-related HNSCC is increasing, highlighting the need to understand the oral HPV infections causing these cancers. This article reviews the evidence for a causal association between HPV and HNSCC, examines the changing epidemiologic trends of HNSCC, and discusses what is currently known about oral HPV infection, natural history, and transmission.
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, JHOC 6th Floor, 601 North Caroline Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
Andrew W
AW
Joseph
Gypsyamber
G
D'Souza
D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000821:virology; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D027383:Papillomaviridae; D030361:Papillomavirus Infections / Q000453:epidemiology*