Irving, TX, Feb. 13, 2017 — The type of HPV virus associated with oropharyngeal cancer that is HPV positive may serve a role in determining tumor aggressiveness and recurrence likelihood. Those were the findings of a recent study that may pave the way for less intensive treatments down the road for those diagnosed with oral cancers that are linked to a very specific strain of the human papilloma virus.

The study in question involved data related to more than 200 patients diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer. Researchers found that patients with HPV-16 associated cancer had a higher five-year survival rate than cancers linked another HPV strain or no strain at all. They also had a statistically significant reduction in recurrence rate. The findings, researchers say, may pave the way for less aggressive treatments in those with this very specific cancer link.

“While it is still far too early to recommend deescalating treatments in these cases, the findings so far are very promising,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at Choice Cancer Care. “Any time it is possible to effectively treat cancer while sparing patients from aggressive treatments, it is highly preferred.”

The study, Dr. Echt says, also indirectly sheds light on the importance of the HPV vaccination for children and young adults. HPV 16 is one of the HPV stains commonly available vaccines can now safeguard against. Since HPV is strongly linked to sexual transmission, it is recommended that children, both boys and girls, receive this shot series before they reach the age of sexual maturity. Young adults, however, may also benefit from the vaccine and its protective value.

“HPV has been strongly connected with cervical, oral and other forms of cancer,” says Dr. Echt. “Vaccinating against the virus may help prevent cancer down the road.”

Parents interested in learning more about the HPV vaccine, are urged to speak with their pediatrician.

About Choice Cancer Care
Choice Cancer Care is an independent, physician-owned cancer center network. Dr. Gregory Echt, a radiation oncologist with over two decades of experience, is the founder of Choice Cancer Care. Choice Cancer Care is among the busiest practices in the country for brachytherapy, or prostate seed implant therapy – a cancer treatment plan for prostate cancer that provides remarkable success rates and fewer life-limiting side effects.