NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – A kiss is no longer just a kiss.
This simple act of affection can actually spread a sexually-transmitted virus linked to oral cancer.
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"There's been an incredible increase in Human Papillomavirus and it one of the major causes of mouth cancer, throat cancer and back of the tongue cancer," said Dr. Peter Rubelman, a periodontist in North Miami Beach.
Rubelman said having oral sex with someone infected with the virus or even kissing someone who has had oral sex with an infected person can spread HPV to the mouth.
"It's a scary thought," said expectant mom Lisa Marie Jones.
Jones decided to undergo a new oral HPV test to protect herself and her baby.
"As a mother wanting to just love on this baby, I don't want to pass on to him anything he doesn't need," she said.
The oral DNA tests is quick and easy. Patients gargle with a sterile saline solution for 30 seconds, then spite the contents into a collection tube which is then sent to a lab for testing.
"The test will determine if there's HPV in the saliva," said Dr. Egbert De Vries, a head and neck surgeon with the Cleveland Clinic Florida.
De Vries said a positive result isn't necessarily cause for alarm.
"Healthy people can eliminate the virus on their own in two years, so you wouldn't want to rush off for treatment just based on a positive result," De Vries said.
Rubelman agrees, but said it's important to know if the virus is present. "This way people can be proactive and make sure they get a proper oral exam to stay on top of any possible changes."
Jone's test came back negative, much to her relief.
"Even though I had to pay out of pocket, I'm glad I had it done," she said.
The test, which costs $200, is not covered by insurance.