About 30% of all cancer cases in India are head and neck cancers, making them a serious health concern. The high frequency of over 200,000 new cases identified each year is attributed to a number of common risk factors.
We are guided through the following by Dr. Vineet Kaul, Consultant, Head and Neck, Surgical Oncology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, and Dr. Ankur Bahl, Senior Director, Medical Oncology & Haematology, Fortis Hospital, Gurugram:
Head and Neck Cancer Symptoms
Dr. Bahl emphasizes that typical symptoms consist of:
Chronic, painful throat
recurring headaches
Changes in voice or hoarseness
discomfort during swallowing or eating
discomfort in the upper teeth
Pain or numbness in the face
ache in the neck
difficulty speaking or breathing
lumps in the mouth, neck, or throat
Chronic infections or earaches
nosebleeds
bloody phlegm or saliva
Non-healing sores
recurring sinus infections
Spots of red or white in the mouth
swelling of the cheeks or jaw
Dr. Kaul continues, stating that more symptoms may appear as:
An ulcer that does not go away after fifteen days
difficulties putting on dentures
smaller mouth opening
swelling inside the nasal cavity
swelling in the cheek area
enlarging the eyes
chin or under-the-ear swelling
enlargement of the scalp or head
One-sided ear discomfort or loss of hearing
Risk Factors for Cancer of the Head and Neck
Tobacco usage is the main risk factor mentioned by Dr. Bahl among other risk factors. The incidence of these malignancies is dramatically increased in India due to the high prevalence of tobacco usage. Excessive alcohol intake and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection are two other significant risk factors. HPV infection is increasingly associated with oropharyngeal malignancies in younger persons.
Other risk factors that Dr. Bahl has identified are:
weakened immunity as a result of major operations or HIV
exposure to dangerous materials such as insecticides or asbestos
radiation therapy for further cancers
High intake of foods preserved with salt, raising the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer
Genetic variables, such Fanconi anemia, particularly in conjunction with tobacco usage
Bad dental hygiene may cause oral cancer and periodontal disease.
Dr. Kaul highlights the risk factors associated with the workplace, such as formaldehyde, nickel, asbestos, and wood dust exposure. He also states:
Eating smoked seafood
recurring salivary gland infections
UV radiation exposure or prolonged sun exposure
Use of Aspartame
A few hereditary conditions, such as Fanconi anemia
Prior head and neck cancer in the family
Preventive and Prompt Identification
The significance of early identification for successful therapy is emphasized by both specialists. Among the options are targeted treatment, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. Early diagnosis and awareness of symptoms may help prevent the condition from progressing. To greatly lower the chance of developing head and neck cancer, preventative strategies include being vaccinated against HPV, decreasing alcohol and tobacco use, and practicing excellent dental hygiene.
For prompt diagnosis and treatment, it is essential to comprehend the signs and risk factors of head and neck cancer. People may better defend themselves against this serious illness by leading healthier lives and paying close attention to any changes in their health.
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