Posted on 27th July 2026, by Admin
Published on the occasion of World Head and Neck Cancer Day
Every year, thousands of people across India are diagnosed with cancers affecting the mouth, tongue, throat, voice box (larynx), thyroid, salivary glands, nose, and sinuses. Many of these cancers are preventable, and many are treatable—especially when diagnosed early.
World Head and Neck Cancer Day reminds us that awareness, early diagnosis, and timely treatment can make a meaningful difference.
Whether you use tobacco or not, recognising the warning signs of head and neck cancer could help protect your health—or even save the life of someone you care about.
Head and neck cancer is not a single disease. It refers to a group of cancers that develop in different parts of the head and neck, including:
In India, cancers of the oral cavity are among the most common cancers, largely because of tobacco use.
Many patients ignore symptoms for months because they believe they are caused by:
Unfortunately, cancer does not always cause severe pain in its early stages.
By the time symptoms become difficult to ignore, the disease may have progressed.
Recognising early warning signs is one of the most effective ways to improve the chances of timely treatment.
Consult a qualified healthcare professional if you notice any of the following lasting more than two weeks:
These symptoms do not always indicate cancer, but they deserve medical evaluation.
Certain factors increase the risk of head and neck cancers.
These include:
Many patients have more than one risk factor.
India has one of the highest rates of tobacco-related oral cancers in the world.
Smoking is harmful.
Chewing tobacco is harmful.
Gutka is harmful.
Khaini is harmful.
There is no safe form of tobacco.
The encouraging news is that quitting tobacco reduces future health risks, regardless of age.
If you use tobacco, today is an excellent day to begin planning to quit.
Although not every cancer can be prevented, many cases may be avoided by adopting healthy lifestyle habits.
These include:
Prevention starts with everyday choices.
When cancer is diagnosed early, treatment may:
Every patient's condition is unique, and treatment decisions depend on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer.
Treatment for head and neck cancer has advanced significantly over the past two decades.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
Many patients return to work, family life, and their normal routines after completing treatment and rehabilitation.
A diagnosis affects not only the patient but also the entire family.
Support can include:
Recovery is often a team effort involving healthcare professionals, caregivers, family members, and the patient.
1. Do not ignore persistent symptoms.
If a mouth ulcer or neck lump lasts more than two weeks, seek medical advice.
2. Quit tobacco today.
It is never too late to stop.
3. Encourage family members to seek help early.
Early diagnosis can improve treatment options.
4. Do not fear evaluation.
Not every symptom is cancer, but persistent symptoms deserve attention.
5. Spread awareness.
Sharing accurate information may encourage someone to seek care earlier.
Is every mouth ulcer cancer?
No. Most mouth ulcers are not cancer. However, any ulcer lasting more than two weeks should be evaluated.
Is a painless neck lump dangerous?
Not always. However, persistent neck lumps in adults require medical assessment.
Does oral cancer always occur in tobacco users?
No. Although tobacco is the leading risk factor, oral cancer can also occur in people without a history of tobacco use.
Can young people develop head and neck cancer?
Yes. While it is more common in older adults, younger individuals can also develop head and neck cancers.
Can head and neck cancer be cured?
Many patients can be successfully treated, particularly when the disease is diagnosed early. Outcomes vary depending on the type, stage, overall health, and other clinical factors.
Dr. Sachender Pal Singh is a Consultant Head & Neck Surgical Oncologist and Microvascular Reconstructive Surgeon at Ranchi Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (RCHRC), a unit of Tata Cancer Care Foundation. His clinical interests include oral cancer, laryngeal cancer, thyroid cancer, salivary gland tumours, and microvascular reconstruction. He is committed to promoting evidence-based cancer awareness, early diagnosis, multidisciplinary care, and patient education.
This article is intended for public education and awareness. It should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. If you have persistent symptoms or health concerns, please seek medical advice. Individual treatment recommendations and outcomes vary.