Theme: "World Head and Neck Cancer Day"

World Head and Neck Cancer Day: A Surgeon’s Perspective on Awareness, Early Detection and Hope

Posted on 27th July 2025, by Admin

Every year on 27th July, we come together to observe World Head and Neck Cancer Day—a day that holds immense meaning for those of us working on the frontlines of cancer care. For me, as a head and neck cancer surgeon, this day is not just about raising awareness—it’s about sharing stories of courage, urging early detection, and reminding people that many of these cancers can be prevented or treated successfully when caught in time.

A Bit of History

This global movement began in 2014, thanks to the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncologic Societies (IFHNOS), which launched the initiative during its 5th World Congress in New York. Since then, the day has become a rallying point for clinicians, patients, and communities across the world—to educate, screen, and advocate.

What Are Head and Neck Cancers?

These are not just one disease but a group of cancers that arise in the oral cavity, throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), nasal passages, sinuses, salivary glands, and thyroid. In countries like India, the burden is particularly heavy—especially due to the widespread use of tobacco, betel nut, and alcohol. Many of my patients come to us far too late, unaware that what began as a small sore or change in voice could be life-threatening.

Who is at Risk?

Over the years, I’ve seen how these risk factors repeat themselves across patients:

• Tobacco (smoked or chewed)
• Alcohol (especially when combined with tobacco)
• HPV infection, particularly in oropharyngeal cancers
• Poor oral hygiene
• Exposure to harmful substances in certain occupations

Signs You Should Never Ignore

Often, people wait too long—brushing off early symptoms. But trust me when I say, early signs can save your life:

• A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent throat pain
• A lump in the neck
• Voice changes or hoarseness
• Unexplained ear pain or weight loss

If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, see a doctor. Don’t wait.

Why Early Detection Matters

The truth is simple: early detection saves lives. When caught early, we can cure up to 90% of head and neck cancers. In contrast, late-stage cancers are not only harder to treat but also leave a greater impact on a person’s ability to speak, eat, and function normally.

Community-based screenings, especially in high-risk populations, have helped us detect precancerous lesions early—and in many cases, prevent the cancer altogether. In my own practice, I’ve seen how a quick examination of the mouth or throat during a camp has led to life-saving intervention.

How We Treat Head and Neck Cancers

Treatment is individualised. No two patients are alike—and neither are their tumours. We use a multidisciplinary team approach, bringing together surgical oncologists, radiation specialists, medical oncologists, speech therapists, psychologists, and nutritionists.

Main treatment options include:

• Surgery – Often the first step, especially when the tumour is operable
• Radiotherapy – As standalone or combined treatment
• Chemotherapy – Especially in advanced or inoperable cases
• Targeted and immunotherapies – Promising options for recurrent or metastatic cancers
• Rehabilitation – Equally important, including speech and swallowing therapy

The New Era: Advanced Surgical Treatments

In the past decade, there were some incredible innovations that are revolutionising the way head and neck cancers are being treated:

• Robotic Surgery: With the advent of transoral robotic surgery (TORS), surgeons can now remove tumours in deep or narrow areas of the throat with unmatched precision, minimal invasiveness, and quicker recovery. Patients benefit from reduced scarring, faster healing, and better functional outcomes.
• Endoscopic Surgery: Using high-definition cameras and specialised instruments, endoscopic techniques allow us to operate through natural or minimal-access routes with no visible incisions. These are especially valuable in treating nasal, skull base, and voice box tumours—preserving function and appearance. Endoscopic thyroid surgery is another advancement, enabling scarless neck surgery through small hidden incisions, often in the underarm or oral cavity.
• Laser Surgery: For select cancers of the larynx and oral cavity, laser technology enables us to remove diseased tissue with minimal bleeding and better preservation of voice and swallowing functions.
• Microvascular Reconstruction: Our reconstructive capabilities have also grown dramatically. With microsurgical techniques, we can now restore the shape and function of the face, jaw, or tongue using the patient’s own tissue—giving not just life, but quality of life. These procedures are vital in helping patients regain speech, swallowing, and facial appearance after major cancer resections.

These technological leaps are not just about sophistication—they are about compassion. They allow us to offer our patients treatment that is less invasive, more effective, and more respectful of their dignity and function.

A Message of Hope

On this World Head and Neck Cancer Day, I urge you—stay alert to symptoms, quit harmful habits, and encourage your loved ones to get screened. If you or someone you know is going through treatment, know this: you are not alone. We, as doctors, are here not just to operate—but to walk with you every step of the way.

Because every early diagnosis, every shared story, and every screening brings us closer to saving a life.