World Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Day 2025: The HPV Vaccine Could Save Your Life 

27th July 2025 

This World Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Day, Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK has a simple but urgent message: HPV vaccination saves lives. 

With HPV-related head and neck cancers having doubled in the past 20 years, the charity is using today to remind the public that these devastating cancers are preventable – but only if more people get vaccinated. 

The Growing Threat 

The most common type of head and neck cancer is oropharyngeal (throat) cancer, which is increasingly linked to HPV – the same virus that causes cervical cancer. 

“HPV-related throat cancers are among the fastest-growing cancer types in the UK,” explained Tamara Kahn, CEO of Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK. “While we’re winning the battle against cervical cancer through vaccination and screening, throat cancer – particularly in men – continues to rise at an alarming rate.” 

The tragedy is that a vaccine exists that’s 99% effective against HPV-related cancers. Research shows it could prevent more than 100,000 cases of cancer in the UK by 2058 – yet uptake remains stubbornly low. 

A Son’s Mission 

University student Jake Hazari-Webb understands the stakes better than most. His father is living with stage 4 HPV-related head and neck cancer, and Jake has channelled his experience into action. 

“Watching my dad go through this has been devastating, especially knowing it could have been prevented,” said Jake, who features in Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK’s awareness video released today. “The vaccine is free, it’s safe, and it takes minutes. No family should have to go through what we’re going through.” 

Earlier this year, Jake ran 70,000 metres (70km) in a single day – representing the 70,000 men diagnosed globally with HPV-related cancers annually. His efforts have sparked vital conversations about HPV vaccination among his peers at university. 

“Most young people think HPV only causes cervical cancer,” Jake explained. “They don’t realise it’s a major cause of throat cancer too, especially in men. I’m determined to change that, one conversation at a time.” 

Get Protected Now 

It’s not too late to get protected. Free HPV vaccination is available through the NHS for: 

• All secondary school children from age 12 

• Girls under 25 (catch-up programme) 

• Boys born after 1st September 2006 (catch-up programme) 

• Those at higher risk (check NHS website for eligibility) 

“If you missed the vaccine at school, you can still get it,” stressed Kahn. “Don’t wait until it’s too late. Book your vaccination today.” 

Take Action Today 

Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK is urging everyone to play their part: 

Watch and share Oracle’s HPV vaccination awareness video – every share (via email, social media, mobile) could help prevent future cancers 

Sign the petition calling on the government to boost HPV vaccine uptake and protect future generations 

Get involved – Our new events page launches next week, featuring activities for every fitness level to help you fundraise for life-saving work

• Runs, walks, treks and cycles  

• The Mardi Himal Trek and other adventure challenges  

• Community fundraising events 

“Prevention is always better than cure,” concluded Kahn. “Together, we can ensure that future generations don’t have to face these devastating but preventable cancers.”