Can Survival Rates for Oropharyngeal Cancer Be Improved?

Oropharyngeal cancer, which is cancer in the middle section of your throat (or pharynx) and at the base of the tongue and tonsils, is receiving increased attention in the news because occurrences are rising, especially among African American men. Penn Dental Medicine’s oral medicine specialist and cancer therapy expert, Dr. Sunday Akintoye, explains what you need to know about oropharyngeal cancer, including symptoms, its relationship to HPV, and more.

Get the Facts About Oropharyngeal Cancer

Oropharyngeal cancer is caused by:

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV are associated with oropharyngeal cancers. In fact, 70% of cases are caused by HPV.

• Tobacco Use: Including smoking cigarettes and using smokeless tobacco products, tobacco use remains a major risk factor for oropharyngeal cancer.

• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is another significant risk factor, especially when combined with tobacco use.

• Poor Oral Hygiene and Oral Health: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for reducing the risk of various oral cancers, including oropharyngeal cancer.

• Age and Gender: This cancer is more commonly diagnosed in older adults, with a higher incidence in men than women.

Oropharyngeal cancer often goes unnoticed until it advances. Oropharyngeal cancer symptoms can include:

• Persistent Sore Throat.
• Difficulty Swallowing.
• Unexplained Weight Loss.
• Voice Changes.
• Lumps in the Neck or Throat.
• Lesions or Sores in the Mouth.
• Ear Pain.
• Bad Breath.
• Difficulty Breathing.
• Change in Taste.

Awareness of these symptoms is essential in the early detection of oropharyngeal cancer, particularly in populations at higher risk—such as African American men, who have lower five-year survival rates for oral and pharyngeal cancers compared to other racial/ethnic groups. According to Dr. Akintoye, however, five barriers and complications can impede timely diagnosis and oropharyngeal cancer treatment.

1. What are the most common barriers to early detection of oropharyngeal cancer among African American patients, and how can healthcare providers address these barriers?

Dr. Akintoye believes issues from both the patient and the healthcare provider contribute to barriers, which include:

• Lack of Awareness: Many African Americans are unaware of the signs and symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer and its risk factors. Additionally, “There are also some perceived negative experiences when it comes to communicating with dentists about oropharyngeal cancer,” Dr. Akintoye shares.

• Cultural Beliefs and Mistrust: Many patients don’t trust their healthcare providers. Cultural beliefs about health and disease can also deter individuals from seeking care.

• Limited Access to Healthcare: Many African American communities face geographic and financial barriers that reduce access to quality healthcare services. Lack of insurance or underinsurance often results in delayed diagnoses and treatment.

2. Given that African American men have lower five-year survival rates for oral and pharyngeal cancers compared to other racial/ethnic groups, what strategies can be implemented to improve their outcomes?

“Better communication between African Americans and dentists should be established to build trust,” Dr. Akintoye says. “Dentists should avoid a judgemental attitude. … African Americans should also be encouraged to play an active role in their dental care delivery.”

Other options include:

• Developing targeted social media information and screening initiatives for at-risk individuals.

• Collaborate with community leaders to disseminate information about cancer risks and prevention, including the significance of regular checkups.

• Establish patient navigator programs that help individuals understand the healthcare systems.

3. How can we enhance communication between dentists and African American patients regarding oropharyngeal cancer screening and prevention, considering potential cultural factors or trust issues?

Effective communication between dentists and African American patients is crucial for promoting oropharyngeal cancer screening. “Increasing knowledge about oropharyngeal cancer can reduce the fear African Americans may have of oropharyngeal cancer.”

Also, health professionals should engage in open, culturally sensitive discussions regarding individual risks and the benefits of screening. Additionally, educational materials should be provided in multiple languages that address cultural perspectives and emphasize the importance of regular screenings.

4. What role does HPV vaccination play in preventing oropharyngeal cancer among African Americans, and how can we increase their vaccination rates?

HPV vaccination is a critical preventive measure against HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer. However, “African American adolescents and parents are less likely to receive a recommendation of HPV vaccine from a healthcare professional.” It’s important to increase vaccination rates through:

• Awareness Campaigns: Inform the community about the link between HPV and oropharyngeal cancer.

• Engaging Healthcare Providers: Educate pediatricians and family doctors about the importance of recommending the HPV vaccine to this population.

5. Considering that African American men are at high risk for oral cancer, but many are unaware of this fact, what targeted education and outreach programs could be developed to raise awareness and encourage regular screenings?

Dr. Akintoye believes that community engagement is essential. Targeted oral health education should be developed along with protocols for dentists to engage in conversations to discuss prevention and treatment.

“There should also be a commitment to empower African Americans to lead some of these development and implementation efforts.” Dr. Akintoye feels strongly that an even more powerful message should be to encourage African Americans to go into dental careers.

Talk to Penn Dental Medicine About Oropharyngeal Cancer

Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment of oropharyngeal cancer. Can a dentist see signs of oral cancer? Yes. The role of your dentist is critically important in monitoring your oral health, especially if you have any symptoms or fall into a risk category.

To talk to one of our oral medicine experts, make an appointment by completing this form or by calling 215-898-8965. Watch the video for Dr. Akintoye’s complete discussion about minimizing complications of oropharyngeal cancer in African Americans.