HPV positive oropharyngeal cancer: risky sexual behavior

Abstract

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas have traditionally been associated with tobacco and alcohol use. Although smoking rates had been decreasing, there is an increase in the incidence of Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas in the last years. This increase of Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas is noticed in one specific type, Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, mainly the HPV16 type, a high-risk HPV. Transmission of HPV is known as occur through sexual contact but many researches differ on which kind of sexual contact is the responsible for the HPV infection. Objective: The objective of this review is to verify in the literature if there is a pattern of sexual behavior that is more related with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma HPV positive. The habits most associated with Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas are oral sex and multiples sexual partners. The occurrence of this habits in the population varies from local culture, social status and ethnic group. In this context, health care professionals have a major responsibility in orientating about aspects of the disease, risk factors, vaccination and prognosis. Further researches are necessary to clarify the role of vaccination for HPV in future changes in the Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas prevalence.