Head & Neck carcinoma accounts for about 26% of all cancer cases in males and 8% in females in India. Published and existing reports and studies highlight an alarming increase in the incidence, prevalence, and mortality of Head & Neck carcinoma. Head and neck carcinoma as a term encompassing cancers that occur in the head and neck region, including the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, and salivary glands.
Common risk factors include
- Tobacco and alcohol use
- HPV infection
- Poor oral hygiene
- Exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants
Rising trends should emphasize the importance of self-examination for early signs such as persistent oral ulceration, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, lumps or swelling in the neck, and changes in voice.
Preventive measures include
- Lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking
- Reducing alcohol consumption
- Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Practicing safe sex to reduce the risk of HPV infection
- Regular dental check-ups and oral hygiene practices to detect any abnormalities in the mouth early on
Early diagnosis & treatment include the importance of seeking medical attention
promptly upon noticing any concerning symptoms.
Here is an overview of treatment methodologies in head and neck carcinoma
Surgery involves removing the cancerous tumor and surrounding tissues. It's often the primary treatment for localized tumors that haven't spread. In some cases, surgery may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy to ensure any remaining cancer cells are eliminated.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells.It's often used as the main treatment for early-stage tumors or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy for advanced cases.
Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
It's typically used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation
therapy, to increase effectiveness.
Targeted therapy drugs specifically target cancer cells by blocking certain pathways
or proteins that are involved in cancer growth. These drugs may be used alone or in
combination with other treatments, especially for tumors that have specific genetic
mutations or protein overexpression.
Immunotherapy works by boosting the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.It's often used in advanced or recurrent head and neck cancers, particularly those that have not responded to other treatments .Immunotherapy drugs, such as checkpoint inhibitors, can help shrink tumors and improve survival rates.
Supportive care plays a crucial role in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for head and neck cancer patients. This may include nutritional support, pain management, speech therapy, and psychological counselling. Supportive care aims to address physical, emotional, and practical needs throughout the treatment process and beyond.
These treatment options may be used alone or in combination, depending on the individual's specific diagnosis, stage of cancer, overall health, and treatment goals. It's important for patients to discuss their treatment options with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their needs.