Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, salivary glands, and larynx (voice box). Most of these cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, beginning in the thin, flat cells lining the moist surfaces of the head and neck.

In India, head and neck cancers are among the most common cancers, largely due to the high prevalence of tobacco chewing, smoking, and alcohol use. Early diagnosis significantly improves survival and quality of life.

Symptoms vary based on the location of the cancer but may include:

• A persistent sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal
• A lump or swelling in the neck, jaw, or throat
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent sore throat
• Hoarseness or changes in voice
• White or red patches in the mouth
• Ear pain or ringing in the ears
• Nosebleeds or blocked sinuses that don’t clear
• Numbness in the face, chin, or neck
• Loose teeth or poorly fitting dentures
• Unexplained weight loss and fatigue

Staging depends on tumor size, spread, and involvement of lymph nodes:

• Stage I: Small tumor, localized to the original site.
• Stage II: Larger tumor but still confined to the site of origin.
• Stage III: Tumor spread to nearby lymph nodes or adjacent tissues.
• Stage IV: Advanced cancer spread to distant lymph nodes, bones, or lungs.

Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy depending on cancer type and stage.

The main causes are lifestyle and environmental factors:

• Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are the leading causes.
• Alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking significantly raises risk.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection: A major cause of oropharyngeal cancers.
• Poor oral hygiene and dental issues.
• Occupational exposure: Wood dust, asbestos, paint fumes, or chemicals.
• Diet low in fruits and vegetables.
• Family history of cancer.
• Gender: Men are more likely than women to develop head and neck cancers.

While not all cases are preventable, risk can be reduced by:

• Avoiding smoking and chewing tobacco.
• Limiting or eliminating alcohol consumption.
• Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Practicing safe sexual behavior to prevent HPV infection.
• Using protective equipment in workplaces with harmful chemical exposure.
• Regular cancer screenings, especially for high-risk individuals.

Head and neck cancers account for about 30% of all cancers in India.

• More than 200,000 new cases are reported annually in the country.
• Worldwide, they account for 6% of all cancers.
• Men are 2–3 times more likely to develop these cancers compared to women.
• Early-stage cancers have a 5-year survival rate of around 70–80%, while advanced stages drop to 30–40%.