D2D Oral Microbiome and Human Papillomavirus

Throat cancer linked to HPV is on the rise. While most people clear the HPV virus naturally, it can sometimes stay and cause throat cancer. Our research studies how mouth bacteria may help or hurt this process. We hope to develop simple, low-cost tests for early detection at the dentist. Participation involves a survey, spitting into a tube and getting a quick swab of your tonsils to collect microbes. This study is available at the D2D Building at the Minnesota State Fair.