A recent report from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities and the University of Sheffield has revealed a troubling rise in head and neck cancer cases in England. The analysis, covering data from 2013 to 2020, shows that cases surged to 10,735 in 2019, with a further increase to over 11,000 in 2021. Smoking, alcohol consumption, and HPV infections have been identified as major contributing factors, with the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer notably increasing by 47% since 2013.

The study highlights stark socioeconomic inequalities, with individuals in deprived areas twice as likely to develop these cancers compared to those in wealthier regions. This disparity is accompanied by a geographic north/south divide in case distribution. More than half of these cancers are diagnosed at a late stage, complicating treatment and reducing survival odds. “This report shows head and neck cancer is on the increase with stark inequalities across the country and an apparent north/south divide,” said Professor Zoe Marshman, Professor of Dental Public Health at the University of Sheffield.

Professor Ali Khurram from the University of Sheffield warns of the disease’s devastating impact on patients and their families, stressing the need for increased public and professional awareness. Zoe Marshman, a dental public health professor and lead author of the report, points out that addressing these inequalities requires collaborative efforts from government bodies, the NHS, and charities to tackle risk factors like tobacco and alcohol use, and to promote HPV vaccination. Enhanced access to healthcare services, including NHS dentistry, is crucial for early detection and intervention. “People from more deprived areas are not only more likely to get cancer, they’re more likely to be diagnosed at a late stage for certain cancer types, and have trouble accessing cancer services,” noted Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK. 

This report shows a worrying increase in cases that need quick action. By tackling these health gaps, we can give more people a better chance at finding and treating these cancers early.

Source: The Standard