Head and neck cancers are cancers that start in the tissues and organs of the head and neck. They include cancers of the larynx (voice box), throat, lips, mouth, nose, and salivary glands. Most types of head and neck cancer begin in squamous cells that line the moist surfaces inside the head and neck (for example, the mouth, nose, and throat). Best Cervical Cancer in Ashok Rohini treatments offer advanced care for patients dealing with cervical cancer in this area.

Cancer of the head and neck are the most common cancers in India (30% of all cancers). In the past, the treatment of head and neck cancer was only aimed at cancer-free survival. Issues like cosmesis, speech, swallowing, pain relief etc. were considered secondary. Over the last few years, the goals of such treatments have changed. Now, in addition to improved survival, we also aim to improve the quality of life of our patients with better cosmesis, and better functional outcomes like normal speech, swallowing, taste, smell etc.

RISK FACTORS

Tobacco: Tobacco in all forms like cigarettes, cigars or pipes, chewing tobacco, and using snuff is harmful. Topical application in the form of masheri. The single largest factor (85 percent) of head and neck cancers is linked to tobacco use.
Alcohol: Frequent and heavy alcohol consumption raises the risk of developing cancers in the mouth, pharynx, larynx and esophagus.
Human papillomavirus, Epstein barr virus

SYMPTOMS

  • Persistent sore throat
  • Foul breath
  • Hoarseness voice changes
  • Swelling of throat
  • Lump, bump or mass without pain
  • White or red patch, non-healthy oral ulcer
  • Persistent nasal obstructions or congestion

Dr. Prateek Varshney is one of the best oncologists in Delhi for head and neck cancer patients. Early stages of these types of cancer require surgery which can be done with lasers. Lasers have an advantage over conventional surgery in that they cause less pain, less fibrosis, and therefore less trismus and better cosmesis. Micro-laryngoscopic lasers can avoid the need for open surgery. Intermediate-stage laryngeal cancers require conservative partial laryngectomies. Advanced head and neck cancer require extensive surgeries such as composite resection (called commando operation in the past), total laryngectomy with or without pharyngectomy, etc.