Mouth cancer diagnoses in England have risen to an unprecedented level, with new cases now reaching 9,293 annually—a staggering 37% increase over the past decade, according to the latest figures from NHS England. Alarmingly, deaths from mouth cancer have also surged, with 2,970 recorded fatalities, marking a 42% rise compared to ten years ago.
Experts are raising concerns about this sharp increase. While tobacco and alcohol remain major risk factors, human papillomavirus (HPV), primarily transmitted through oral sex, has emerged as a significant contributor, especially among younger people.
Mr Mahesh Kumar, president of the Mouth Cancer Foundation and a leading maxillofacial surgeon, explained: “We’re seeing mouth cancer increasingly in people without traditional risk factors like smoking or heavy drinking. HPV is now linked to many cases, particularly in younger adults. Recognizing early symptoms—such as persistent ulcers, red or white patches, or unusual lumps in the mouth, head, or neck—can save lives.”
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The story of Robert Powell, a 62-year-old father of four from Milton Keynes, underscores the importance of awareness and early detection. Initially dismissing a persistent sore throat as minor, Robert was diagnosed with tonsil cancer only after a dental check identified something unusual. Following chemotherapy and radiotherapy, he remains vigilant about regular dental visits, emphasizing, “You can’t be complacent; regular check-ups can truly be life-saving.”
Despite these risks, public knowledge remains low. Research by the Oral Health Foundation shows that nearly a quarter of people are unaware that mouth cancer can develop in and around the mouth, and only one in five recognize its common symptoms.
This lack of awareness is particularly troubling given that mouth cancer cases and deaths are rising sharply, even as many other cancer types are declining. Dr Nigel Carter OBE, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation, stresses the critical role of dental check-ups for early detection, urging the public to be “mouthaware” by checking their mouths regularly and seeking prompt advice if they notice any abnormalities.
Scientific research supports the link between HPV and oropharyngeal cancers. Dr Hisham Mehanna from the University of Birmingham notes that individuals with six or more lifetime oral sex partners have an 8.5 times higher risk of developing these cancers compared to those who abstain, highlighting the crucial role sexual behaviors play in this health crisis.
With mouth cancer cases surging and HPV infection rising as a key cause, experts stress that greater public education, routine dental screenings, and heightened vigilance can help reverse this worrying trend.