Doctor warns that sore throat is ‘common red flag’ for two types of cancer

Experts have revealed how a persistent sore throat is one of the most common red flags of head and neck cancer. Tumors affecting the mouth, nose and throat are increasing in prevalence, due in part to “HPV,” or human papillomavirus, an often asymptomatic infection that can trigger the disease.

Comedian Rhod Gilbert raised awareness of the form of the disease as he opened up about his battle with stage 4 head and neck cancer on The Great Celebrity Bake Off. Some of the early warning signs are easy to miss, according to Dr. Jiri Kubes, medical director of the cancer treatment center Proton Therapy Center.

He said: “Head and neck cancer is one of the fastest growing cancers in the world and early diagnosis can make a big difference to the chances of beating it. Some of the early symptoms can easily be mistaken for other common conditions, so it’s important to be aware of any changes in your body and address any concerns.

“A persistent sore throat lasting more than two weeks is one of the lesser-known symptoms of head and neck cancer. Gum pain, ulcers and tooth pain, white or red spots in the mouth can also be telltale signs.

“Another common early symptom is persistently blocked ears or persistent ear pain. And swelling of part of the neck or some resistance to touching part of the neck could also be an indicator. Although the appearance of any of these symptoms should not necessarily be a cause for alarm, it is vital that if you suspect that something is wrong, you see your doctor.

Every year around 12,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with head and neck cancer, with Cancer Research UK saying incidence rates have risen by a third since the early 1990s. Experts say there is now a 90% chance to survive head and neck cancer if diagnosed early.

If you are diagnosed late, this can be reduced by up to 40%. Comedian Rhod, 55, was diagnosed with the disease in 2022 but returned to performing with a live tour in 2024 and 2025.

He told the Channel 4 show: “I’m lucky to be here. When I got cancer, I realized that I had gone through my whole life thinking that “other people get cancer.”

“There was a time when we didn’t really know what the future held. Just being here, being anywhere, is good enough.”