Van Heerden, Willem Francois PetrusVan Zyl, Andre W.2011-06-132011-06-132010-03Van Heerden, WFP & Van Zyl, AW 2010, 'Oropharyngeal carcinoma : a sexually transmitted disease', South African Family Practice, vol. 56, no. 6, pp. 576-578. [http://www.safpj.co.za]1726-426X (online)1026-9177 (print)http://hdl.handle.net/2263/16812Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is on the increase and accounts for 18% to 63% of OPC. It occurs mostly in young males with no other identifiable risk factors. The vast majority of HPV-associated OPC is attributable to HPV16. The prognosis of patients with HPV-positive OPC is better than patients with HPV-negative OPC. Oral HPV infection is linked to sexual transmission. The natural history, prevalence and possible risk factors in local communities should be studied to implement appropriate prevention strategies.en© SAAFPHuman papillomavirus (HPV)Oropharyngeal cancerOral sexSexually transmitted disease (STD)Throat -- CancerMouth -- Cancer -- South AfricaArticle