A kind of cancer that disturbs the throat, mouth, and voice box is known as head and neck cancer (HNC). A new research by the WHO (World Health Organisation) predicts that between 2020 and 2040, the prevalence of this kind of cancer would rise by 50.7%. Simple clinical exams can find these malignancies early on, improving the effectiveness of treatment.
By avoiding risky behaviours and being responsive of the early cautionary signals, people may take preventative actions to save themselves against this trauma. One of the main causes of HNC is the intake of tobacco in any kind of form (khaini, cigarette, or surti).
The prevalence of head and neck cancer has decreased in India as a result of government attempts to reduce tobacco usage, according to recent studies. The HPV virus, persistent discomfort from piercing teeth, and ill-suitable dentures are other HNC risk factors. Early diagnosis of oral cancer (HNC) is crucial since it increases the likelihood of a cure by about 80% to 90% and lowers both the risk of treatment side effects and related financial burden.
However, putting this clinical examination-based early detection technique into practise has its difficulties, including educating the healthcare provider and standardising the clinical examination. Additionally, it typically takes a patient six months before they seek medical attention after developing mouth cancer symptoms.
Precancerous lesions that manifest as red or white lesions, burning sensations, decreased mouth opening, and non-healing ulcers frequently precede oral malignancies. The malignancies are identified visually, and a biopsy is used to confirm the diagnosis. In more severe instances, adjuvant therapies including radiation and chemotherapy come next after surgery as the primary treatment.
The approaches to limit the number of incidents are through the adoption of healthy behaviours and lifestyles as well as personal preventive healthcare practises. To effectively control the effects of cancer, it is critical to remove the fear and stigma surrounding it.