Dad Survives Tongue Cancer, Urges Men to Get HPV Vaccinated

A father of two, Anthony Perriam, faced a life-threatening battle after a small lump under his jaw was diagnosed as cancer. Living in Cardiff, Perriam experienced a rapid decline in health due to a cancer related to the human papillomavirus (HPV). His story highlights the importance of awareness and early detection of HPV-related cancers, particularly among men.

Perriam first noticed the lump and promptly consulted his general practitioner. Within weeks, he received a diagnosis in March 2023 that changed his life. He had an HPV-related cancer affecting his head and neck. “I had only ever heard of HPV in relation to cervical cancer,” Perriam said. “I had no idea it could cause cancers like this, especially in men.”

Most individuals infected with HPV clear the virus without complications, according to NHS Wales. However, certain strains can lead to serious health issues, such as genital warts or various types of cancer, with head and neck cancers being particularly prevalent among men. Vaccination is recommended for children aged 12 and 13 and for those at higher risk.

Perriam’s diagnosis came as a shock, especially since he exhibited no symptoms prior to the discovery. He reflected on the emotional turmoil of learning he had cancer while caring for his young children, aged three and six at the time. “My first thought wasn’t about me; it was about them. I was completely petrified for them,” he explained.

In the course of his treatment, Perriam underwent significant surgery, including the removal of 44 lymph nodes and a primary tumor located at the base of his tongue. Robotic-assisted surgery was utilized to ensure precision, and doctors informed him they had caught the cancer just in time. “One of the lymph nodes was on the verge of rupturing. If it had gone any further, it could have spread,” he said.

His treatment journey was arduous. Following surgery, Perriam faced the challenges of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, which led to a drastic weight loss of 22 kg (approximately 48.5 lbs). “All of my saliva disappeared,” he noted. Simple tasks like drinking became difficult, and he found himself so weak that he required a wheelchair for mobility.

Perriam acknowledged the toll that treatment took on his mental health but credited his family for keeping him motivated. “Being wheeled down the corridor and into radiotherapy started to affect my mental health,” he admitted. “But my family gave me the motivation to get through it, and I wanted to live to see my 40th birthday.”

HPV is a group of more than 100 viruses, with transmission occurring through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. In response to the growing awareness of HPV-related cancers, a national immunisation program in Wales offers a vaccine aimed at preventing these diseases. Since its introduction in 2008, the vaccine has contributed to a nearly 90% reduction in cervical cancer rates among women in their twenties.

Dr. Sandeep Berry, consultant otolaryngologist and head and neck surgeon at the Cardiff and Vale Health Board, emphasized the importance of vaccination. He stated, “The HPV vaccine has been used worldwide for years. It’s safe and effective, and is part of the national immunisation program in Wales. It helps boys and girls stay healthy, prevents HPV-related cancer, and strengthens public health overall.”

Perriam’s experience serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of seeking medical advice for any unusual symptoms, particularly lumps that may seem benign. “If you find a lump, even if it doesn’t hurt, get it checked,” he urged. “This kind of cancer isn’t talked about enough, especially among men. Early action really does save lives.”