Rising cases highlight urgent need for education, vaccination, and early diagnosis.
Life After Lary, a voice for people affected by throat and laryngeal cancers, is calling for increased public awareness of **HPV-related throat cancer**, as cases continue to rise sharply across the UK.
HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer — affecting the tonsils and base of the tongue — is now the **fastest-growing head and neck cancer in the UK**. Rates have increased by around **30% per decade**, with cases **doubling over the past 20 years**. In men, HPV-related throat cancer now exceeds cervical cancer incidence.
Recent data show a **47% increase in diagnoses in England between 2013 and 2020**, underscoring the scale of a disease that remains poorly understood by the public.
“Too many people still believe throat cancer is only linked to smoking or alcohol,” said Jon Organ for *Life After Lary*. “HPV-related throat cancer often affects people with no traditional risk factors, and symptoms can be subtle. Awareness saves lives.”
Unlike many cancers, **most HPV-related cancers are preventable**. The HPV vaccine — offered to boys and girls — provides strong protection, yet uptake and understanding remain inconsistent. Public knowledge of symptoms such as persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, neck lumps, or unexplained ear pain is also low, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Life After Lary* is urging:
- Greater public education on HPV-related throat cancer
- Continued support for HPV vaccination programmes
- Increased awareness among men, who are disproportionately affected.
- Earlier recognition of symptoms by both the public and healthcare professionals
“HPV-related throat cancer is increasing — but prevention is possible,” the spokesperson added. “By improving awareness now, we can reduce future diagnoses and improve survival.”
The organisation is encouraging media outlets, healthcare providers, and policymakers to support awareness campaigns and share accurate information about HPV, vaccination, and early warning signs.