The importance of recognising the early signs of head and neck cancer should not be overlooked. If cancer is detected promptly, it can significantly impact the treatment, diagnosis and outcomes. Know 6 key indicators to watch for

Many cancers like head and neck can be cured especially if they are found at an early stage. (Image: Freepik)
New Delhi: After the thrilling revelations made by a recent health report, the concerns about cancer signs have increased. As per the report, ‘India has become the cancer capital of the world’ as the country is currently seeing a rising trend in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the number of cancer cases is also rapidly increasing. However, many cancers like head and neck can be cured especially if they are found at an early stage.
Dr Vidya Bhushan R, Consultant – Head & Neck Surgical Oncology, Narayana Health, Bangalore told News9, “The importance of recognising the early signs of head and neck cancer should not be overlooked. If cancer is detected promptly, it can significantly impact the treatment, diagnosis and outcomes. Prompt or early detection is extremely crucial for the management of head and neck cancer. This becomes important when a person is experiencing a sign or symptom of these cancers which needs urgent medical attention.”
Hence, remembering timely intervention can make a difference in the treatment and the diagnosis procedure and helps improve the quality of life.
Here are key indicators to watch for:
1. Persistent Sore Throat and Hoarseness: While occasional sore throats are common, persistent discomfort or hoarseness lasting more than two weeks warrants attention. Some of the symptoms of throat cancer may include signs of difficulty in swallowing food.
2. Swelling or Lump in the Neck: Any unexplained swelling or lump in the neck should prompt further evaluation. These lumps may be a sign of the cancerous lymph nodes which is often linked with head and neck cancers.
3. Difficulty Swallowing or Persistent Ear Pain: Difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, can indicate tumours in the throat or esophagus. Along with this, constant pain in the ear which may not be related to ear infections or trauma may be a symptom of nasopharyngeal cancer. One of the major symptoms can be hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
4. Persistent Mouth Sores or Oral Lesions: While most mouth sores heal within a week or two, persistent ulcers or lesions that do not improve should be examined by a healthcare professional. The sign of the cancer can be noticed on the tongue, gums or lining of the mouth which may indicate that it is oral cancer.
5. Changes in Voice Quality or Persistent Cough: Changes in voice quality, such as persistent hoarseness or a raspy voice, can be early signs of laryngeal cancer.
6. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue: While weight loss and fatigue can result from various factors, including stress or lifestyle changes, unexplained and unintentional weight loss, along with persistent fatigue, may indicate an underlying health issue such as cancer.
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