March 10, 2014

Mouth and Throat Cancer Rates Increasing


The journal Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery has noted an increase in the incidence of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma in patients younger than 45 years over the time period from 1973 to 2009.  In addition, there was an increase, from 28% to 43%, in the proportion of grade III/IV tumors.  Treatment for this type of cancer involves surgery, often in combination with radiation therapy.  As with any cancer, early detection is most important.  For this type of tumor, the five year survival rate is 54%.  The rising incidence is thought to be related to transmission of the human papilloma virus (HPV) and changes in sexual practices.  This is added evidence is support of vaccinating both boys and girls to prevent disease.

Source:  HealthDay News


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

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