Advances in Prevention, Screening, and Early Detection of HPV-Associated Head and Neck Cancers

Abstract

HPV-related head and neck cancers are increasing globally and although they constitute a major public health problem, there are currently no validated screening or early detection methods in widespread clinical use. This review discusses advances in clinical and molecular aspects of prevention, screening, and early detection of HPV-related head and neck cancers (HNCs), such as potential use of HPV blood or saliva seropositivity, RNA biomarkers, liquid biopsy, circulating tumor DNA, and proteomics. In addition to HPV vaccination, public education about vaccination, smoking, and safe sexual practices is warranted. Continued research is warranted to define optimal use and integration of approaches for prevention, screening, and early detection methods of HNCs.