What is the risk of contracting hpv-positive oropharyngeal cancer from someone? does anyone know?

Increasing: In the past 20 years, hpv went from being present in 16% of oral cancers to over 75%. This is likely due to earlier onset of sexual activity, having more sexual partners, and the misconception that oral sex is "safe". The majority of the oral cancers are caused by high risk hpv type 16. Getting one of the two vaccines currently available between the age of 9-26 will reduce this in the future.

Risk varies: Your risk increases when you don't take precautions. If you are sexually active, have multiple partners and don't use condoms your risk will obviously be greater. Your best defense is to eliminate risky behavior and get tested to make sure you are negative for hpv antibodies. Once confirmed then you may want to look into getting vaccinated.

HPV biology: And disease information is growing rapidly. It is very easy to acquire infection, kissing is a prime route, as well as oro-genital contact. However, many are infected; few develop cancer. The virus clears after a solitary exposure. However, few have 1 exposure.