•  
  •  
 

Abstract

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States, infecting up to 75% of sexually active individuals, with a prevalence rising significantly around age nineteen for oral and genital infections. Because the virus infects epithelial cells and is transmitted primarily through skin-to-skin contact, it is found mainly in the cervix, oral cavity, and on/within ones’ skin. While most of the 200+ HPV subtypes are benign and tend to self-clear within six months to two years, twelve of these strains are classified as high-risk oncogenic strains that drive malignant progression. Furthermore, HPV is linked to an estimated 37,800 cancer cases in areas where HPV can be present, and an estimated 690,000 cancers worldwide are correlated to the virus. This study investigates the specific sexual behaviors and attitudes associated with the presence/absence of oral HPV among college-aged students. Once a month, over the academic year, a cohort of twenty-two volunteers will self-administer an oral swab sample and complete a sexual behaviors and attitudes survey. Swab samples will be filtered, deactivated using Proteinase K, amplified through polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and screened using agarose gel electrophoresis for viral DNA detection. Screening outcomes and survey responses will be statistically analyzed to identify key behavioral and attitudinal correlations. Ultimately, the goal of this research is to determine the sexual behaviors and attitudes associated with the presence or absence of oral HPV in college aged students to educate students on the risks and outcomes of not having sex safely.

Download

Share

COinS