Sometimes medical terms are big. They are big enough to be worried about as well. HPV or Human Papillomavirus is a common name of a group of over 100 contagious viruses. Such HPV virus often leads to the growth of warts in different areas like hands, face, back, soles, the genital area, and other places. It has also been said that HPV causes cancer or is a potential sign of cancer.

How is HPV Spread?

Typically HPV transmission happens through sexual contact. Doctors have found that HPV transmission happens mainly by sexual contact with a partner who is infected. However, it may be some time before it gets detected. Sometimes it may lead to cancer, or to be precise oropharyngeal cancer. Studies have also shown HPV+OPC is curable and chances of being cured are much higher. HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer is not only due to sexual transmission. It is also applicable to those who are also in the habit of chewing and smoking tobacco. Majority of the people who have tobacco addictions have higher chances of oropharyngeal cancer. With that said it can also attach non-smokers as well, albeit the chances are fairly less.

Practice Good Health Habits to Prevent Oral Cancer Caused By HPV

WHO (World Health organization) states that HPV is also responsible for cancer. In case you do feel a discomfort or warts growing in or around the mouth, it would be important to consult the doctor at the earliest possible available time. The warts may not be benign and could be a potential threat and signs of a more serious infection. It is therefore important to maintain good hygiene as well as take the necessary precaution and practice safe sex. One should also keep to the basic needs of brushing, flossing, and cleansing your mouth and teeth, to prevent the occurrence of any form of infections that could arise after practicing oral sex or otherwise.