The new millennium has brought about great advances in technology and innovation. One of those advancements is the discovery of the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and oropharyngeal cancer. Thirty-five years ago, it was postulated a virus called human papillomavirus could cause cervical cancer; today, it is well established that cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, rectal, oropharyngeal, and penile cancers are attributed to the virus.1 HPV is now considered a human carcinogen with worldwide prevalence. Unlike other cancers of the mouth, HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers are more likely to occur among younger patients with certain sexual histories without the traditional risk factors of tobacco and alcohol, and is far more common in men than women.1 As HPV public awareness continues to grow, so will the knowledge of dental health-care professionals who provide care. This course is designed for dental health providers to enhance their existing knowledge of HPV’s risk associated with oropharyngeal cancer and to explore the pathogenesis of the virus in the body.
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