Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an infection that has been linked with cervical, head and neck cancer. 

Researchers now fear that the proportion of HPV-related cancers are on the rise – with cases tripling in Scotland since 1994. 

A two-year study of 235 patients with head and neck cancer found HPV in 60% of cases.

Research co-author Kevin Pollock, of Glasgow Caledonian University, said: “Some of the reasons for this increase are due to alcohol and smoking, but we think the proportion of HPV-related head and neck cancers are increasing. 

“This might be due to a change in sexual behaviours.”

The Scottish government now plans to extend the school HPV vaccination programme to cover boys and girls.

Dr Pollock added: “Our latest data shows that 78% of people with head and neck cancers were men and that HPV was present in 60% of the cancers.

“This means the vaccine may reduce some of these cancers in the long term in Scotland.” 

It comes after another study in April found routine vaccination of schoolgirls in Scotland with CPV led to a dramatic reduction in cervical cancer. 

“The vaccine may reduce some of these cancers in the long term in Scotland”

Research co-author Kevin Pollock

Since a UK-wide immunisation scheme for girls aged 12 and 13 was introduced a decade ago, researchers found a reduction of up to 90% of instances of pre-cancerous cells being discovered at smear tests aged 20.

Throat Cancer Foundation chief executive Jamie Rae welcomed the latest research.

The Falkirk businessman, who set up the charity after being diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer caused by HPV, said: “What Dr Kevin Pollock’s research highlights is both the importance and opportunity to end the destructive impacts HPV has on head and neck cancers.

“We welcome the findings in this research and recognise that it is going to be a useful tool to help educate the general public as to why a nationwide HPV vaccination programme will benefit and protect children’s health in future years.”

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