This is a subject that really hits home with me because it may play a role in some of what has been going on with my own neck lately.

There is substantial evidence linking HPV to Oral Cancer, particularly cancers of the oropharynx (that is the back of the throat including the tonsils, and tonsillar pillar area). The "good news", if you can call it that, is that there have also been a number of studies that have shown not only a greater 5 year survival rate, but actually a lesser rate of mortality period for those with tumours containing HPV versus traditional risk factors or those with no prior risk factors. I believe the number quoted was somewhere around a 59% greater chance of survival.

The other important thing to note, is that HPV has also been found to have a causal relationship in Esophageal cancer as well (which tends to make sense since the lining of the Esophagus contains similar cells to those in the mouth and cervix). What I have been unable to locate there, is any evidence that supports a greater survival rate for Esophageal tumours as well. Much research to be done here still...

Ian.