A new report examining rates of head and neck cancers across the UK has confirmed that that the North West continues to record some of the highest rates in the country.
Head and neck cancer affects nearly 13,000 people each year, with rates notably higher in the North West where deprivation is more widespread. Risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use and HPV infection are also more common in these communities, further increasing the likelihood of developing the disease.
Professor Terry Jones, Group Director of Research for University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, Director of the Liverpool Head and Neck Centre and Professor of Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Liverpool, was one of the authors behind the report produced by the Northern Head and Neck Alliance (NHNA), the Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) and Health Equity North.
Professor Terry Jones said: “This report highlights the significant and avoidable inequalities in head and neck cancer outcomes across the north of England.
“Patients living in our most socioeconomically disadvantaged communities remain more likely to develop the disease and present at a much later stage, which has a profound impact on survival.
“There is clear opportunity to change this. Improving HPV vaccination uptake, reducing tobacco and alcohol harm and ensuring timely access to specialist care are essential steps toward narrowing the gap.”
Spotting cancer early is essential and the report urges people to take notice of any symptoms that persist. These may include a new lump in the neck lasting three to six weeks, mouth ulcers or swellings that have not healed after three weeks and unexplained hoarseness that persists for longer than three weeks. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact their GP or dentist, as early assessment and diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes.
Professor Jones continues: “Our focus must be on prevention, early diagnosis and equitable access to high‑quality treatment so that every person in our region has the best possible chance of a positive outcome.”
To read the full report click here.
To read the full NHSA press release click here.