13. Human Papillomavirus Prevalence in Oral and Oropharyngeal Rinse and Gargle Specimens of Dental Patients and of an HIV-Positive Cohort from Pretoria, South Africa

Human Papillomavirus Prevalence in Oral and Oropharyngeal Rinse and Gargle Specimens of Dental Patients and of an HIV-Positive Cohort from Pretoria, South Africa

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Average read time: 30-35 minutes

Short Summary of the Article:

This research article examines the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in oral and oropharyngeal rinse and gargle specimens from dental patients and HIV-positive individuals in Pretoria, South Africa. The study involved 221 participants, with data collected on demographic factors, sexual behavior, smoking, and alcohol use. The research found that HPV DNA was detectable in 3.6% of participants, with no significant correlation between HPV presence and behavioral or demographic data. The study highlighted the low prevalence of HPV in these populations and the absence of significant differences between HIV-positive individuals and general dental patients. The results align with global data on oral/oropharyngeal HPV prevalence.

Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of this activity, you should have an understanding of:

1. The relationship between oral/oropharyngeal HPV infection and high-risk behaviors such as smoking, alcohol use, and oral sex.
2. The methods used to detect HPV in rinse and gargle specimens and the significance of HPV subtypes in oral health.
3. The implications of low HPV prevalence in different population groups and the lack of correlation with HIV status.