Did you know that 27th July is observed as World Head and Neck Cancer Day? Every year this day is marked to raise awareness about the condition among the masses.
Did you know that India contributes to nearly 60 per cent of head and neck cancer patients worldwide? As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), this number is expected to double by 2030.
There are a lot of factors associated with a higher risk of head and neck cancer. Increasing consumption of tobacco and alcohol remains one of the major ones in the country. Stress, obesity may also lead to cancer in humans at a later stage in life.
As per experts, cancers that are collectively known as head and neck cancers (HNCs) usually begin in the squamous cells that line the moist, mucosal surfaces inside the head and neck. Also, it could be inside the mouth, the nose, and the throat. Moreover, these squamous cell cancers are often referred to as squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck.
Some of the early signs of cancer are:
-Sore in the oral cavity that doesn’t heal
-Swelling in the jaw
-Unusual bleeding or pain in the mouth
-Lumps or thickening in the mouth
-Trouble breathing and swallowing food
-Bleeding through nose
-Headaches
-Pain and swelling around eyes
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But if you commit to quitting the consumption of these dangerous products like tobacco and alcohol, you may reduce the risk of contracting cancer to a great extent.
Certainly, there are treatments available for the patients. Like there is surgery available followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Furthermore, there is no doubt that you can reduce the risk of cancer by taking precautions and quitting the use of tobacco in any form.