Verified By Apollo General Physician January 17, 2024
Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers that arise from the salivary glands, larynx, sinuses, mouth cavity or in the throat. Many of these tumours often have the same risk factors and can bring about severe impairment to one’s capacity for speech, eating or even breathing.
Since this medical condition is so complicated, it is crucial to know its origins and risk factors, as well as look for innovative treatment alternatives such as those available at Apollo Hospitals. Head and neck cancer represents the most widespread type of cancer in developing countries. In addition, they affect men more often than women. 57.5% of all cases worldwide of head and neck cancers are reported in India. Rising rates of tobacco intake over time have resulted in India currently accounting for about 60% of all cases globally of head and neck cancer.
What Causes Head and Neck Cancer?
Usually, aberrant DNA alterations in squamous cells on the mucous membrane surface result in head and neck cancer. The consequence is that the cells start to expand and divide abnormally. The majority of the time, extended exposure to certain carcinogens causes DNA alterations. Several factors contribute to the development of head and neck cancer, with the most prevalent being tobacco and alcohol use. It’s a well-known fact that most people link smoking—more especially, the chemicals in smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and pipes—to lung cancer. But a lot of people don’t know that one of the main causes of head & neck cancer is the high nicotine concentration found in all tobacco products, including chewables.
Nicotine induces squamous cell mutations by irritating the epithelium. Because of the altered growth patterns brought about by genetic mutations, cells multiply far more quickly than they would normally. The rapidly proliferating cells then gather to create a tumour, which gets bigger the more cells that get added to it. Because poisons like nicotine may harm mucosa and epithelium, they can enter the circulation and spread throughout the body, which is known as metastasis or the spread of cancer.
Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer
The most frequently affected demographics of head and neck cancer include men and elders above the age limit of 50 years. In addition to age and sex, the largest risk factors are smoking, excessive alcohol consumption as well as HPV infections.
Depending on the kind of cancer, there are different risk factors:
How Can I Reduce My Chances of Developing Head and Neck Cancers?
Most head and neck cancers are preventable with certain actions. To keep yourself safe:
Why Choose Apollo Hospital?
Apollo Hospital’s comprehensive team of specialists, advanced equipment, and individualised treatment make it an unparalleled option for head and neck cancer. At Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, we use a comprehensive approach and provide the most sophisticated care that maximises efficacy while minimising discomfort, such as minimally invasive operations and precision radiation therapy.
In addition to medical treatments, we offer full support services, assisting patients at every stage of their journey with anything from dietary advice to psychological assistance. Apollo Hospitals is a ray of hope for people with head and neck cancer because of its dedication to research, which guarantees access to the newest advancements and produces excellent treatment outcomes and high-quality care.
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