Head And Neck Cancer: Symptoms, Treatment And Prevention Tips

Understanding Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancers can affect various structures within the head and neck region. They can originate in the:

1. Oral Cavity: This includes the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, and the hard palate.
2. Pharynx (Throat): This includes the nasopharynx (upper part), oropharynx (middle part), and hypopharynx (lower part).
3. Larynx (Voice Box): This is responsible for producing sound.
4. Sinuses and Nasal Cavities: These are air-filled spaces within the head.
5. Salivary Glands: These produce saliva, which aids digestion.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of head and neck cancer. These include:

1. Tobacco use: Smoking, chewing tobacco, and exposure to secondhand smoke are significant risk factors.
2. Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can heighten the risk.
3. HPV infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly certain strains, is linked to some head and neck cancers, especially oropharyngeal cancer.
4. EBV infection: Epstein Barr Virus infection is associated with the development of nasopharyngeal cancer
5. Betel quid (Paan Masala) chewing: This habit, common in some parts of Asia, is a known risk factor.
6. Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed foods might contribute to an increased risk.

Symptoms and Signs to Watch For

Head and neck cancer symptoms can vary depending on the location of the tumour. Here's a breakdown of some common warning signs:

1. Mouth: A sore throat that doesn't heal, a white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or inner cheek, difficulty swallowing, unusual bleeding or numbness in the mouth, loose teeth for no apparent reason.
2. Throat: Persistent hoarseness, a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, a feeling of something stuck in the throat, and earache on one side.
3. Voice: Changes in voice, such as hoarseness, or difficulty speaking clearly.
4. Sinuses and nasal cavity: Frequent nosebleeds, chronic nasal congestion, facial pain or numbness, persistent sinus infections.
5. Other: Unexplained weight loss, difficulty breathing, changes in vision or hearing.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of head and neck cancer is crucial for successful treatment and improves the chances of a full recovery. If you experience any of the above symptoms or signs, especially if they persist for more than two weeks, consult our ENT doctor in Pune immediately. Early diagnosis allows for treatment options like surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.

If you have any concerns about head and neck cancer, consult our experienced oncologist in Pune for a proper diagnosis and discuss your risks and treatment options. Early detection is key to successful treatment. Be aware of the symptoms and signs, and don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you experience any concerning issues.

Tips to Prevent Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer is a serious health concern, but the good news is that adopting a preventive approach can significantly lower your risk. Here are some key strategies to keep your head and neck healthy:

Kick the Tobacco Habit

• Stop smoking and chewing tobacco: This is the single most crucial step in preventing head and neck cancer. Tobacco use directly damages cells in the mouth and throat, increasing the risk of cancer development.
• Avoid secondhand smoke: Exposure to secondhand smoke from others can also increase your risk.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

• Reduce alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the tissues in the mouth and throat, contributing to cancer risk.

Embrace a Healthy Diet

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Fill your plate with a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables. They are packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients that can help protect your cells from damage.
• Limit processed foods: Processed meats, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation and potentially increase cancer risk.

Vaccinate for HPV

• HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can protect against certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) that are linked to some head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancer. Vaccination is recommended for both boys and girls at the ages of 11 or 12. The vaccination can be done upto 26 years of age.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

• Practice regular brushing and flossing: Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily removes plaque and bacteria that can contribute to mouth infections and potentially increase cancer risk.
• Schedule regular dental checkups: Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to maintain good oral health and identify any potential problems early on.

Sun Protection for Your Lips

• Use lip balm with SPF: Sun exposure can damage the lips, so use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to protect them from the sun's harmful rays.

Be Mindful of Workplace Exposures

• Minimise Exposure to Certain Substances: If your workplace involves exposure to dust, chemicals, or other irritants, wear appropriate protective gear like masks and follow safety protocols to minimise inhalation risks.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

• Manage your Weight: Obesity is a risk factor for various cancers, including head and neck cancers. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce your risk.

Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer

Here's a breakdown of the primary approaches used to treat head and neck cancer:

1. Surgery: Surgery aims to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue. The type of surgery performed depends on the location and stage of the cancer.

2. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to destroy cancer cells. It can be administered externally (from a machine) or internally (brachytherapy, where temporary radioactive implants are placed near the tumour).

3. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy utilises powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body.

It can be given alone or combined with surgery and/or radiation therapy.

4. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy drugs focus on specific abnormalities within cancer cells, aiming to disrupt their growth and spread.

5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps your body's immune system recognise and attack cancer cells.

This is a promising area of research for head and neck cancers, with some immunotherapy drugs already approved for use.

Our oncologists analyse all treatment options to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific situation. They also explain the benefits and risks of each treatment option and help you make an informed decision. Book a consultation with our skilled oncologists in Pune today!