The Uvula is reputed to have a purpose beyond the (very interesting) assistance in inclined drinking; it aids in the moistening of the throat.
The Uvula is somewhat unfortunately implicated in snoring, along with the other tissues from which it depends. These tissues can be cut away with a laser in what is known as Laser Assisted Uvula Palatoplasty, or LAUP.
References:
Webpage: American Academy of Otolaryngology, Laser Assisted Uvula Palatoplasty (LAUP). (http://www.entnet.org/healthinfo/snoring/laup.cfm)