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Co-infection of HPV and EBV Linked to Oral Cancers in Nigeria

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A recent study published in BMC Oral Health has found that co-infection of Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with oral and oropharyngeal cancers in Nigeria. The research, conducted by a team of scientists at the University of Ibadan, examined the prevalence and risk factors for oral HPV and EBV co-infection among sexually active individuals in Nigeria.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found a significant association between oral HPV and EBV co-infection and oral and oropharyngeal cancers in Nigeria.
  • The co-infection was more common among individuals with certain socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle, and sexual behaviors.
  • Targeted public health measures, such as HPV vaccination programs, are recommended to reduce the burden of oral HPV and EBV co-infection.
  • The study highlights the importance of addressing the co-infection of HPV and EBV in the prevention and control of oral cancers in Nigeria.
  • Deborah Oke and colleagues from the HPV Consortium at the University of Ibadan conducted the research, with additional contributions from researchers at various institutions.

Statistics:

  • The study examined oral samples from participants in the Sexual Behaviour and HPV Infection in Nigerians in Ibadan (SHINI) study.
  • The prevalence of oral HPV and EBV co-infection was 14.1% among males and 8.5% among females.
  • The study found that individuals with a history of tobacco use and those who had multiple sexual partners had a higher risk of oral HPV and EBV co-infection.
  • The study recommended HPV vaccination programs, especially in high-risk groups, to reduce the burden of oral HPV and EBV co-infection.

Sources:

  • Prevalence and risk factors for oral human papillomavirus and Epstein-Barr virus co-infections among sexually active males and females in Ibadan, Nigeria. BMC Oral Health, 2025;25(1):1517.
  • Deborah Oke, et al. Prevalence and risk factors for oral human papillomavirus and Epstein-Barr virus co-infections among sexually active males and females in Ibadan, Nigeria. BMC Oral Health, 2025;25(1):1517.

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