Background:Head and neck cancer, which includes tumours that arise from the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, hypopharynx and sinonasal tract, represents a serious health care problem in many parts of the world, and ranks as the sixth most common cancer worldwide.The present study was conducted to assess risk of HPV infection and oropharyngeal carcinoma. Materials & Methods: 78patients of oral cancer of both genderswere enrolled. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Frequency and amount of alcohol consumption (ml) were recorded. 5 ml venous blood sample was obtained for the assessment of antibodies to HPV16 E6. Results: Out of 78 patients, males were 58 and females were 20.HPV E 16 E16 serologypositive was seen in 50 and negative in 28, BMI was normal in 26, underweight in 38, poor in 14. Stage I and II was seen in 17, III in 36 and IVin 25. Alcoholism>2 was seen in 52 and <2 in 26. Smoking >10 was seen in 40 and <10 in 38. Dental carewas good seen in 15, moderate in 38 and poor in 25. Conclusion: Common risk factors for oropharyngeal carcinoma was HPV, overweight, stage III and IV, alcoholism, smoking and poor oral hygiene.