Rising rates of head and neck cancer in England | News

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A new report from the University of Sheffield, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Social Care, which analyzed data from 2013 to 2020, found a significant increase in the incidence of head and neck cancer

  • A new report shows that between 2013 and 2020, there was a significant increase in head and neck cancer cases, especially throat cancer, where the number of diagnoses increased by 47

  • The risk of head and neck cancer in people living in the poorest areas was almost twice as high as in those living in wealthier areas

  • Scientists from the University of Sheffield highlight the need for urgent action by national and local authorities, the NHS and charities to work together to reduce risk factors for head and neck cancer, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, and improve early diagnosis

  • In England in 2020, there were over 10,000 new cases of head and neck cancer and over 3,000 deaths

A new report has revealed a worrying increase in the number of people diagnosed with head and neck cancer in England.

Between 2013 and 2020, there was a significant increase in the incidence of head and neck cancer, particularly throat cancer, where the number of diagnoses increased by 47. In England in 2020, there were over 10,000 new cases of head and neck cancer and over 3,000 deaths.

The report, produced by the University of Sheffield in collaboration with the Department of Health and Social Care, also found that the risk of head and neck cancer in people living in the poorest areas was almost twice as high as in wealthier areas.

Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common cancer group in the world and the eighth most common in the UK.

Professor Zoe Marshman, Professor of Dental Public Health at the University of Sheffield and lead author of the report, said: “This report shows that head and neck cancer rates are rising, with stark inequalities across the country and a clear divide between north and south.

“People living in deprived areas are much more likely to be diagnosed with cancer of the mouth, oropharynx, and larynx, and the cancer is diagnosed at a late stage, making treatment more difficult and reducing the chance of survival.

“Addressing these issues will require national and local authorities, NHS organizations and charities working together to reduce risk factors for head and neck cancer (such as smoking, drinking alcohol and taking HPV vaccines) that individuals may struggle to change without Help.

“Improved access to health services, including local NHS dentistry, is one of the key ways we can support early detection.”

Head and neck cancer is a term used to describe various types of head and neck cancer, including cancer of the mouth and throat.

Professor Ali Khurram, Professor and Honorary Consultant Pathologist at the University of Sheffield, said: “Head and neck cancer can have a devastating impact on the lives of people affected and their families. Although head and neck cancer is one of the most common cancers in England and has significantly poorer survival compared to other cancers, awareness of its occurrence among the public, healthcare professionals and funding organizations is low. This report, the first of its kind, provides an opportunity to galvanize action to reverse these disturbing trends.”

The report highlights the need for immediate action by government agencies, healthcare organizations, charities and professional associations to tackle the rising incidence of head and neck cancer. Key recommendations include:

  1. Tobacco control: implement comprehensive tobacco control measures to reduce smoking rates.

  2. Limiting alcohol consumption: Promote responsible drinking habits and reduce excessive alcohol consumption.

  3. Increasing HPV vaccination rates: Ensure universal access to the HPV vaccine, which is linked to some types of head and neck cancer.

  4. Improving early detection: improving early detection and diagnosis programs, especially in areas with high rates of cancer.

The report also highlights the importance of further research to develop more effective methods of detecting and treating head and neck cancers, especially in disadvantaged communities.

The full report can be viewed at: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/announcements/atlas-of-variation-in-head-and-neck-cancer-in-england