Mumbai: Head and neck cancer cases make up almost 40% of the total burden of cancer in India, with the majority of cases diagnosed in the late stages when treatment is difficult. Against this backdrop, oncologists said simple self-examinations could help catch symptoms early, when treatment is most effective. At a meeting held to make April head and neck cancer awareness month, senior oncologist Dr Sewanti Limaye pointed to a “worrying” demographic shift. “There is a growing contribution from non-tobacco factors such as human papillomavirus and poor oral hygiene, particularly in younger age groups between 30 and 50 years,” she said. Cases among non-tobacco users and non-smokers are rising, with studies indicating a roughly 20% increase. According to the National Oral Cancer Registry, five people die every hour in India due to oral cancer. Doctors said a “two-minute” self-screening examination done once a month could help. People could check for white or red patches in the mouth, ulcers that do not heal within two weeks, or any unusual bleeding or loose teeth. Any lumps or swelling in the jaw or neck, hoarseness or voice changes, and persistent pain in the ear or while swallowing could also be a sign. Meanwhile, studies by leading cancer institutes such as Tata Memorial Centre have shown that nearly 80% of oral cancers in India are linked to tobacco use, areca nut (supari) chewing, alcohol, and HPV infections.
