Angela,

Research at Johns Hopkins, where they test 100% of new oral cancer patients, indicates that 70% or more of new oral cancer patients test positive for HPV. That is the same virus that is now linked to cervical cancer.

The recommended treatment is almost the same regardless of how one contracts this cancer but Hopkins says that HPV+ oral cancer responds better to the treatment and has a lower reoccurrance rate compared to non HPV+ oral cancer.

I was treated at Moffitt and they don't test for HPV even though they told me I was likely positive. I just (last Friday) had them send my samples away to be tested. They sent them to Hopkins telling me they were the only CCC testing for HPV. If possible, I want to know how I got this cancer. Just for me.

Gail Mac is a fountain of knowledge on this topic as her husband is participating in a HPV vaccine trial at Hopkins.

Gail, if I have misstated any facts, please correct me.

David

Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.