The rise of HPV-related Oropharyngeal Cancer in men

What is oropharyngeal cancer?

Oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), a form of head and neck cancer affecting the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue, is on the rise - especially among men. While traditionally linked to tobacco and alcohol use, a growing body of evidence now highlights human papillomavirus (HPV) as a major cause, responsible for up to 80% of OPC cases.

In the UK, HPV-related OPC has surpassed cervical cancer as the most common HPV-related malignancy. Between 1995 and 2011, cases of HPV-related OPC in England increased by 135%, with men disproportionately affected - now accounting for approximately 80% of cases (1). This trend is concerning, given the lack of a standard screening test for OPC and the fact that many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, requiring aggressive treatment such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. 

OPC vaccination gaps and the impact on male health 

HPV vaccination has been a cornerstone of cancer prevention, yet historically, it has been gendered. The UK’s national programme introduced vaccination for girls in 2008, only expanding to include boys in 2019. While males up to age 25 can still receive the vaccine for free through the NHS, uptake remains low, in part due to limited awareness. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted vaccination rates, particularly among boys, increasing concerns about future cases of HPV-related OPC. 

Raising awareness and encouraging prevention 

At Healix Health, we recognise that addressing this growing health concern requires a multi-faceted approach, combining prevention, education, and early intervention. Our partner, Perci Health, emphasises the importance of targeted efforts to bridge knowledge gaps and promote proactive healthcare decisions. 

Key steps to combat HPV-related OPC: 

• Promoting HPV vaccination: Many young adults remain unaware of their eligibility for free vaccination. Digital education, workplace health initiatives, and public health campaigns can play a crucial role in increasing awareness and uptake. 

• Encouraging family conversations: Parents and guardians have a powerful influence in ensuring their children - regardless of gender - receive the HPV vaccine. These discussions should be normalised to prevent future cases of HPV-related cancers. 

• Enhancing symptom awareness: Since no routine screening exists for OPC, recognising early warning signs - such as persistent sore throat, difficult swallowing, or lumps in the neck - is essential. Empowering individuals to seek timely medical advice can improve outcomes.  

• Workplace health initiatives: With cancer increasingly affecting the working-age population, employer-led health programmes are vital. These initiatives can encourage vaccine uptake, provide education, and support early detection strategies.  

HPV-related OPC is a preventable cancer, yet the UK continues to see rising cases among men. Vaccination remains the most effective defence, but for those beyond the eligibility window, education and early symptom recognition are key. As healthcare providers, employers, and individuals, we must work together to close the awareness gap, advocate for equitable vaccination policies, and ensure more men are protected from this life-altering disease. 

At Healix Health, we are committed to advancing healthcare solutions that empower individuals to take control of their wellbeing. By fostering education, prevention, and early intervention, we can help reduce the burden of HPV-related OPC and improve long-term health outcomes. The research presented in this article was gathered and shared by cancer care partner Perci Health. To discover more about the services Perci Health offers take a look at their website here.  

1. Perci Health