Making the case for interprofessional education and practice collaboration to address rising rates of HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancers

Cancers caused by the humanpapilloma virus (HPV) on the tongue, tonsils, mouth, and throat are rising in the US, particularly among males. The HPV vaccine, usually given to adolescents, is effective at preventing oral cancers caused by HPV. Dental professionals have an opportunity to educate patients and encourage the HPV vaccine to prevent these cancers.

What next?

• Policy: Expand the scope of services for dental providers to include vaccine administration.
• Clinical: Talk to patients or parents of patients about HPV and the HPV vaccine as a tool to prevent cancer.
• Community: Include education about HPV and the HPV vaccine in community resource locations.