An off-topic rant here regarding research in OC.

Let me say that it frustrates me to no end that Oral Cancer is not researched as heavily as other cancers. One doctor at the Barrett Cancer Center in Cincinnati once told me it was because of the false impression that OC is only developed by tobacco users and its their own fault. I don't know about you, but I know multiple people whom have never smoked, chewed or done anything with tobacco that are cursed with this disease.

Cervical cancer has been linked to HPV - what is taking so long to draw the same link in OC? Why are no studies being done? Should we consider an informal study and take a poll for OC patients and see who has HSV or HPV? These viruses can be so dormant that many people have them and never know it. Why did my ENT laugh me off when I asked for my wife's most recent surgical resection to be analyzed for HPV and HSV? It may be time for OC patients to step from the shadows and share our stories more widely so the stigma of 'dirty smokers' is put to rest once and for all and hopefully improve funding.