The incidence of head and neck cancer has been rising for many years now, despite some changes in smoking and drinking habits. Much of the increase can be attributed to the human papilloma virus (HPV). It causes not only cancer of the cervix but cancers in other locations including the head and neck. HPV vaccination was given to girls in Year 8 from 2008, For many years head and neck professionals and patient groups campaigned for the vaccination programme too be extended to boys as well as girls. In 2019 equal vaccination was introduced in England and Year 8 boys received the jab as well.
The work is not over however and the current level of vaccinations is below 75%, though it has recovered a little recently after a fall probably down to concerns about vaccinations after COVID. March 4th is an International Awareness Day and the work done on this day can help boost vaccination rates. Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK are doing some brilliant work in this area as you can see from the link below. Please sign the petition!