According to recent studies, America’s favorite vices might actually lead to an increased risk of oral HPV.
Oral HPV type 16 is a common strain of HPV that causes 90% of oropharyngeal (throat) cancers. According to a recent study by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, study subjects with higher levels of biomarkers for tobacco exposure in their blood and urine tended to have a higher prevalence of HPV type 16.
Another recent study published in BMJ found that men who drink more alcohol tended to have higher levels of HPV. For the types of HPV that may increase the risk of cancer, heavy drinkers had 35% of HPV prevalence vs 23% of the light drinkers.
For more detailed information about the studies, head over and read the article at Time.
Smoking and drinking can also lead to problems with your teeth. If you’re a smoker or drinker and would like to learn more about how dental implants can give you back your smile, call us today at 972-612-7800. You can schedule a free, no obligation consultation, and we’ll answer your questions and walk you through your options.