Head and Neck Cancer : Causes, Symptoms And Prevention

Head and Neck Cancer: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention

Head and neck cancers are a group of malignancies that arise in the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, and salivary glands. In India, head and neck cancers account for approximately 30% of all cancers — one of the highest rates in the world — driven largely by tobacco and alcohol use.

Types of Head and Neck Cancer

• Oral cavity cancer — lips, tongue, gums, floor of mouth, hard palate

• Pharyngeal cancer — nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx

• Laryngeal cancer — voice box

• Salivary gland cancer

• Thyroid cancer

• Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer

Risk Factors

• Tobacco use — smoking and smokeless tobacco (gutka, pan masala) are the leading risk factors

• Alcohol consumption — synergistic risk with tobacco

• HPV infection — Human Papillomavirus (particularly HPV-16) is a major cause of oropharyngeal cancer

• Genetic predisposition — family history and inherited variants in DNA repair genes increase risk

• Occupational exposures — asbestos, wood dust, formaldehyde

• Poor oral hygiene — chronic irritation and inflammation

Warning Signs

• A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal within 2–3 weeks

• Persistent hoarseness or voice changes

• Difficulty swallowing or chewing

• A lump or swelling in the neck

• Unexplained weight loss

• Persistent ear pain or hearing loss

Prevention and Early Detection

Early detection should be considered a crucial strategy, achievable through public education and screening. A comprehensive approach to cancer treatment is essential, involving multiple disciplines and specialists. This is why meeting a genetic counsellor is important — they take a detailed medical history, evaluate risk factors, and recommend appropriate genetic testing if necessary.

Genetic counselling for head and neck cancer involves the evaluation, testing, and counselling of individuals who may have an increased risk due to inherited genetic mutations. In India, the greatest priority for cancer control should be addressing the burden of head and neck cancers — which, while challenging to treat, are also highly preventable.