Head and neck cancer is on the rise: A doctor explains the causes and how the HPV vaccine may help

Head and neck cancer is changing and more people are being affected. Recent research studies have found that head and neck cancer is the seventh most common cancer in the world. And after years of declining rates tied to reduced smoking, certain types of head and neck cancer — especially those in the throat — are now increasing.

Experts point to one major reason: human papillomavirus (HPV).

"Head and neck cancer isn't one condition. It's a group of cancers with different causes," says surgical oncologist, Amit Bhojwani, DO, FACS, MS, MBS. "Today, we're seeing more cases driven by HPV, including in younger, otherwise healthy people."

Dr. Bhojwani explains what to watch for and how to reduce your risk so you can take steps to protect your health.

Why cases are rising

In the past, head and neck cancer was most often linked to smoking and alcohol use. That's still true. But now, HPV is a leading cause, especially for cancers in the throat.

In the U.S. and Europe, 60%–70% of oropharyngeal (throat) cancers are linked to HPV in both women and men.

This means:

• You don't have to be a smoker to be at risk
• These cancers are showing up more often in younger people than previously
• People without "traditional" risk factors may still be affected

"Many patients are surprised," explains Dr. Bhojwani. "They don't smoke or drink much, but they still develop these cancers. That's why awareness is so important."

Other factors may also influence risk, including environmental exposures and overall health, but tobacco, alcohol and HPV are the strongest known causes.

What is head and neck cancer?

Head and neck cancer is a broad term for cancers that start in areas like the:

• Mouth
• Throat (pharynx)
• Voice box (larynx)
• Nose and sinuses
• Salivary glands

Most start in the thin lining inside these areas, called squamous cells.

When most people talk about this topic, they're usually thinking about throat cancer, which is also where HPV plays the biggest role.

For more details, you can explore our full head and neck cancer condition page.

Head and neck cancer survival rate

A few reassuring facts:

• Early-stage head and neck cancers can have 70%–90% survival rates
• HPV-related cancers often respond well to treatment
• Catching it early makes a big difference

"The earlier we identify a problem, the more options we have," says Dr. Bhojwani. "Early diagnosis can truly improve outcomes."

Symptoms to watch for

Some symptoms can be easy to ignore at first, but they shouldn’t be. Keep an eye out for:

• A lump in the neck
• A sore throat that doesn't go away
• Pain or trouble swallowing
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• A feeling that something is stuck in your throat
• Ear pain that doesn't improve
• Mouth sores that don't heal

"These symptoms are common and often caused by something less serious," explains Dr. Bhojwani. "But if they stick around, it's worth getting checked."

When to talk to a healthcare professional

A good rule of thumb: don't wait it out too long.

Reach out to a clinician if:

• Symptoms last more than 2–3 weeks
• You notice a new or growing lump in your neck
• Something just doesn't feel right

What to expect when you meet with a clinician:

• A conversation about your symptoms and history
• A simple head and neck exam
• Next steps tailored specifically to you, which may include imaging or a referral to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist

"You don't have to figure this out alone," says Dr. Bhojwani. "We work with you to understand what's going on and decide what to do next."

How to reduce your risk

Here are the most important steps to lower your risk of head and neck cancer:

• Do not use any form of tobacco
• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption
• Stay up to date on routine care
• Ask your clinician about preventive options

The HPV vaccine can help with prevention

One of the most powerful tools we have today is the HPV vaccine.

Here's why it matters:

• HPV is causing more and more cases of head and neck cancer — especially in the throat
• HPV-related throat cancers are biologically different from those caused by other risk factors and often respond better to treatment
• The HPV vaccine helps prevent infection with high-risk HPV types that can lead to cancer
• The vaccine is recommended for everyone, not just women
• It's approved for ages 9 through 45 years old

Important to know about the HPV vaccine:

• It's not just for cervical cancer
• It helps protect against cancers that affect all genders
• Even adults who weren't vaccinated when they were younger may still benefit

"The HPV vaccine is one of the few ways we can actually prevent cancer before it starts," says Dr. Bhojwani. "It's an important conversation to have at any age."

Next steps

If something doesn't feel right, or you just want peace of mind, getting checked is a great first step.

At Main Line Health, our ENT specialists and cancer care teams work together to:

• Evaluate symptoms
• Provide expert diagnosis
• Create personalized care plans

Getting answers early can make all the difference.

Make an appointment with Dr. Bhojwani or another ENT at Main Line Health.

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