Head, neck cancer cases rising, over 1.4 lakh die annually

Dr Shamit Chopra, Head of the Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Director at Patel Hospital in Jalandhar, emphasises the critical importance of early detection in the successful treatment of head, oral and neck cancers. He warns that these cancers carry a mortality rate exceeding 50 percent, underscoring the urgent need for timely diagnosis and intervention.

What types are included in head and neck cancers? What is their morbidity and mortality rate in India?

Head and neck cancers include cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box (larynx), thyroid, nose/sinuses and neck nodes. These cancers are among the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in India, accounting for over 2.5 lakh new cases and more than 1.4 lakh deaths annually.

What are the common symptoms of head and neck cancers? The most common symptom is non-healing ulcers in the mouth or throat. Other symptoms may include swelling or masses in the neck or face, difficulty in swallowing, speaking, breathing, or opening the mouth, unexplained weight loss, oral or nasal bleeding and pain radiating to the ear.

What are the common risk factors? The key risk factor is tobacco use, whether through smoking or chewing. Other contributing factors include excessive alcohol consumption, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection, chronic irritants such as sharp dentition, betel quid and spicy or gastritis foods.

On what factors does the success of treatment depend? The key to curing head and neck cancer is early detection. When diagnosed in premalignant or early stages, these cancers can be treated with high success rates. Raising awareness is the first step toward saving lives. Treatments may involve a range of surgical procedures, including minimally invasive and robotic surgeries, laser microsurgery for thyroid and salivary gland cancers and microvascular reconstruction.

What has been your contribution in research for the disease? Our hospital published an international manuscript last month. April was observed as the international oral, head and neck cancer awareness month. I have personally authored over 60 scientific publications and presented papers at more than 370 national and international forums. I have pioneered numerous patient-focused cancer programmes. My ongoing focus on outcomes-based care, precision surgery and multidisciplinary cancer management continues to shape the future of oncology in India.