Rising Throat Cancer Rates in Ireland Linked to HPV, Vaccination Rates Decline

A new national coalition, HPV Network Ireland, has launched to raise awareness about the increasing incidence of HPV-related cancers in Ireland, particularly a “significant” rise in throat cancers among men over the past two decades. This comes amid concerns over declining HPV vaccination rates.

What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common and highly contagious virus spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, typically during sexual activity. Most HPV infections (around 90%) are cleared by the body’s immune system within two years [Irish Cancer Society]. However, persistent high-risk strains can lead to genital warts and various cancers.

HPV and Cancer in Ireland

Approximately 640 new cases of HPV-associated cancers are diagnosed annually in Ireland, resulting in 196 related deaths [Irish Cancer Society]. These cancers include:

• Cervical cancer
• Anal cancer
• Penile cancer
• Throat cancer (head and neck cancers)
• Vulval cancer
• Vaginal cancer

Increase in Throat Cancer Cases

Dr. Cara Martin, associate professor in molecular pathology, tumour biology and cancer screening at Trinity College Dublin, and chair of HPV Network Ireland, highlights a concerning trend. While Ireland is on track to meet its cervical cancer elimination goals, awareness of other HPV-related cancers remains low. Over the last 20 years, there has been a “marked” increase in head and neck cancers, believed to be linked to HPV [Irish Cancer Society].

Historically, head and neck cancers were strongly associated with smoking, but with declining smoking rates, a new pattern is emerging. Cases are rising at a rate of 3.6% to 3.8% per year, and are being diagnosed in younger individuals with little to no history of smoking. Men are disproportionately affected by this trend [Irish Cancer Society].

HPV Vaccination Rates are Declining

The most recent data from the 2023/2024 academic year shows an HPV vaccine uptake rate of 74.9%, a 4 percentage point decrease from the previous year and significantly down from a peak of 89.9% in 2014 [Irish Cancer Society]. This decline is particularly concerning as there are currently no national screening programs for many of the cancers linked to HPV.

The HPV Vaccine: Gardasil 9

The HPV vaccine currently used in Ireland is Gardasil 9, which protects against 9 out of 10 cervical cancers [Irish Cancer Society]. The vaccine works by prompting the body to produce antibodies that fight off HPV infection, preventing it from causing cancer. Amy Nolan, director of clinical affairs at the Irish Cancer Society, recommends that children receive the vaccine in their first year of secondary school for optimal protection against HPV-associated cancers.

The Importance of Vaccination

Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools to reduce the future burden of HPV-related cancers. The HPV Network Ireland aims to increase awareness and improve vaccination rates to protect the health of the Irish population.