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Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that affect the mouth, sinuses, neck and throat. The most common symptoms of head and neck cancer are persistent sore throat, change in voice and difficulty swallowing. Depending on the stage of cancer, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are recommended by the health specialist.
There has been a rise in the number of head and neck cancer patients in India in recent times. Explaining this rise in an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Prathamesh S. Pai, head and neck surgeon at Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head and Neck Institute of India, said, “The global incidence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in India is rising especially in the younger population, with a projected 30% annual increase by 2030. One in nine Indians is at risk of developing cancer in their lifetime and most of this is preventable.”
Also read: Head and neck cancer is becoming a major concern in India. Know its causes, symptoms and who is at risk
What is the reason for the increase in the number of head and neck cancer patients in India?
Tobacco, betel nut and alcohol:
Squamous cell cancer is the most common cancer and 80% of cancers are caused by tobacco, betel nut and alcohol consumption. Cancer takes 8 to 10 years to appear and can be prevented by avoiding these habits.
Also Read: Head and neck cancer: Know the symptoms for early detection and treatment
Poor dental hygiene:
The average Indian rarely brushes his teeth, rinses his mouth after every meal and almost never has an annual dental check-up. Many people sleep with tobacco and betel nut in their mouths. Cheek cancer is one of the most common cancers in the mouth, followed by tongue cancer.
Also Read: Lifestyle changes can reduce risk of head and neck cancer: Know how
Detection Delay:
In India, the average delay in diagnosis of oral cancer is 6 months. Most cancers are detected at an advanced stage – hence, multiple treatments are needed, increasing both toxicity and cost.
Awareness of early symptoms:
Awareness of signs and symptoms such as any growth in the oral cavity, abnormal bleeding from gums, any change in swallowing, persistent change in voice, any growth in the neck should be taken seriously and a doctor should be consulted.
Also read: One bad habit is responsible for the increase in neck and head cancer in India
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