A cross-sectional survey of awareness of human papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal cancers among general practitioners in the UK

This cross-sectional survey aimed to examine the level of awareness of the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and oropharyngeal cancers (OPC) among general practitioners (GPs) in the UK. The questionnaire had a response rate of 72.9%, with 384 GPs completing the survey. 74% recognised HPV as a risk factor for OPC, which was lower than the knowledge about the role of smoking, chewing tobacco and alcohol consumption (all >90% recognition). 71.9% of GPs were aware that rates of HPV associated OPC have increased over the last two decades. Fewer than half of the GPs correctly identified being male as a risk factor of HPV-associated OPC. The results of this study suggest that further education the epidemiological trends and patient demographics of HPV-associated OPC may be needed to ensure early detection in primary care. Read the full article