Overview

• Cancer Research UK data show nearly 13,000 people are diagnosed with head and neck cancers in the UK each year, with incidence up a third since the 1990s.
• Rising human papillomavirus infection rates are considered a major factor behind the growing number of cases.
• Dr Jiri Kubes warns that these cancers remain under-recognized despite being among the fastest-growing cancer types worldwide.
• He identifies persistently blocked ears, neck swelling, non-healing mouth ulcers, dental pain, and sore throat lasting more than two weeks as warning signs.
• Kubes emphasizes that prompt GP referrals based on these symptoms can significantly improve survival through earlier diagnosis.