World Head and Neck Cancer Day

Uniting for World Head and Neck Cancer Day – UHAPO Sheds Light on a Global Health Concern

World Head and Neck Cancer Day is observed annually on July 27th. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about head and neck cancers, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected by them.

Head and neck cancer in India accounts for 30% of all cancers in the world. It is a serious health problem with a considerably high morbidity and mortality rate. Among all the types of head and neck cancer oral cancer accounts for 4th most common cancer among females in India. 

The principal cause of Head and neck cancer is a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some of the main causes and risk factors include consumption of alcohol, tobacco use, HPV infection, and genetic factors. The survival rate of Head and neck cancer depends on early detection and treatment. However, the recent advancement in the multidisciplinary approach has shown the best outcomes. Surgery remains the cornerstone of the treatment for the majority of head and neck sites. 

What is Head and Neck Cancer?

Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in the tissues and organs of the head and neck region. These cancers affect areas such as the mouth, throat, voice box, nasal cavity, and salivary glands. 

Prevention of Head and Neck Cancer

Preventing head and neck cancer involves adopting a combination of lifestyle changes and reducing exposure to known risk factors. While it may not be possible to completely eliminate the risk of developing cancer, these preventive measures can significantly lower the chances of its occurrence –

1. Avoid Tobacco Use – The most important preventive step is to avoid all forms of tobacco, including smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, as well as using smokeless tobacco products. 
2. Limit Alcohol Consumption – Reduce or limit alcohol consumption, as heavy and prolonged use increases the risk of developing head and neck cancer.
3. Reduce the risk of HPV infection – It can lower the risk of oropharyngeal cancer. Practicing safe sex and getting vaccinated against HPV (if eligible) can be important preventive measures.
4. Sun Protection – Protect your lips and skin from excessive sun exposure. Use lip balm with sunscreen and wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses when outdoors.
5. Healthy Diet – Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods can support overall health and may play a role in cancer prevention.
6. Oral Hygiene – Practicing good oral hygiene, including regular dental check-ups, can help identify any potential problems in the mouth at an early stage.
7. Know Your Family History – If you have a family history of head and neck cancer or other cancers, inform your healthcare provider. Understanding your genetic risk can help inform screening and prevention strategies.
8. Regular Check-ups – Attend regular medical check-ups and screenings, especially if you have risk factors or experience persistent symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer?

Head and neck cancer can present with a variety of symptoms, which may vary depending on the specific location and stage of the cancer. Some common symptoms include –

1. Persistent Sore or Ulcer – A sore or ulcer in the mouth, throat, or on lips that do not heal within a few weeks or keep recurring.
2. Difficulty Swallowing – Trouble swallowing or a feeling of something stuck in the throat (dysphagia).
3. Changes in Voice – Hoarseness or other unexplained changes in the voice that persist for more than a few weeks.
4. Lump or Swelling – A lump or swelling in the neck or any other area of the head and neck region that persists for an extended period.
5. Pain – Persistent pain in the mouth, throat, neck, or ear that doesn’t go away.
6. Chronic Sore Throat or Cough – A persistent sore throat or cough that doesn’t resolve with typical treatments.
7. Unexplained Weight Loss – Significant and unexplained weight loss without any apparent cause.
8. Ear Pain – Pain in one or both ears that is not related to an ear infection but persists over time.
9. Nasal Symptoms – Chronic congestion, sinus pain, or nosebleeds that do not improve with usual treatments.

What treatments are available for Head and Neck Cancer

The treatments for head and neck cancer can vary based on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the individual’s overall health. The main treatment options include –

1. Surgery – Surgical intervention is commonly used to remove the cancerous tumor and nearby affected tissues. The extent of surgery 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 and shrink tumors. It may be used before or after surgery or as the primary treatment for small tumors.
3. Chemotherapy – Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It is often used in combination with radiation therapy or as a neoadjuvant therapy before surgery to shrink tumors.
4. Targeted Therapy – Targeted therapies are drugs that specifically target certain molecules or receptors involved in cancer growth. These drugs are designed to interfere with specific cancer cell processes while sparing healthy cells, leading to potentially fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
5. Immunotherapy – Immunotherapy is a revolutionary treatment that boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, a type of immunotherapy, have shown promising results in treating certain types of head and neck cancer.
6. Combination Therapies – Often, a combination of treatments is used to achieve the best possible outcome. This may involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and/or immunotherapy, depending on the specific characteristics of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.
7. Palliative Care – Palliative care focuses on providing relief from pain and symptoms, improving the patient’s quality of life, and supporting them throughout the treatment process, particularly in cases of advanced or incurable head and neck cancer.

Do Clinical trials have a role in Head and Neck Cancer

Yes, clinical trials play a crucial role in head and neck cancer treatment. By participating in clinical trials, patients contribute to the progress of cancer research and pave the way for improved treatments and better outcomes for head and neck cancer patients worldwide.

Biomarker-driven clinical trials have proven to be a significant area of research in head and neck cancer. These trials focus on specific genetic or molecular characteristics of tumors. By identifying biomarkers, researchers can better understand the behavior of individual cancers and tailor treatments accordingly. 

Immunotherapy has also shown promising results in various cancers, including head and neck cancer. Further clinical trials are performed to focus on immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors which aim to harness the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.

Before enrolling in any clinical trial, patients and their families should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits. It’s essential to discuss trial options with healthcare providers to ensure that participation aligns with the patient’s medical condition and treatment goals.