Determination of Role of Type 16 Human Papillomavirus and Risk Factors in Assessing Oropharyngeal Cancer Survival

BACKGROUND: It is ascertained that the survival rate of patients infected with type 16 human papillomavirus (HPV16) positive is better as compared to those infected with HPV16 negative. The present study was conducted to determine rgw role of HPV16 and risk factors in assessing oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) death. METHODOLOGY: A total of 102 clinically and histologically proven cases of oral pharyngeal cancer were included. Seropositivity for HPV16 E6 as a marker of HPV16-positive cancer was estimated. RESULTS: Out of 102 patients, there were 70 males and 32 females. Significant risk factors associated with OPC survival overall in the univariate analysis was female sex (hazard ratio [HR] 0.54, 95% confidence level [CL]: 0.36–80), alcohol use >2 drinks/day (HR 1.54, 95% CL: 1.12–2.08), smoking >10 pack-years (HR 2.20, 95% CL: 1.42–3.58), moderate dental (HR 1.54, 95% CL: 1.02–2.32), underweight (HR 2.24, 95% CL: 1.34–3.60), and Stage IV cancer (HR 2.82, 95% CL: 1.76–4.40). There was significant low risk for death among HPV16 positive (HR 0.48, 95% CL: 0.32–0.70). CONCLUSION: HPV16 status is an independent prognostic factor for OPC deaths. The common risk factors were female gender, moderate oral care, underweight body mass index, excessive alcohol, and smoking tobacco.