Experts Warn of Rising Head and Neck Cancer Cases, Stress Prevention

Doctors say while these cancers are serious, many of their causes and risk factors are preventable with lifestyle changes and early screening.

“Head and neck cancers often begin silently, but risk factors like tobacco, alcohol, and HPV are well established,” said Dr. Akriti Rastogi, Head and Neck Surgeon at Moolchand Hospital. “Understanding and addressing these risks is crucial to reducing cases in the future.”

What Triggers Head and Neck Cancers?

Medical experts point to several major causes:

• Tobacco use – Smoking, chewing tobacco, gutka, paan, and even second-hand smoke are the biggest contributors.

• Alcohol consumption – Regular or heavy drinking irritates the throat and mouth, multiplying cancer risk when combined with tobacco.

• HPV infection – High-risk strains, especially HPV-16, are increasingly linked to oropharyngeal cancers.

• Poor oral hygiene and diet – Chronic irritation from dental issues and diets low in fruits and vegetables raise risk.

• Occupational exposures – Long-term contact with asbestos, wood dust, or paint fumes can be harmful.

• Family history and genetics – A genetic predisposition may increase vulnerability.

• Radiation exposure – Previous radiation therapy to the head or neck raises future cancer risks.

• Infections – HIV and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) are associated with higher susceptibility.

Symptoms That Need Attention

Patients may notice symptoms such as:

• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness.

• Mouth ulcers that don’t heal.

• Lumps in the neck.

• Difficulty swallowing.

• Changes in voice or unexplained weight loss.

Doctors warn that ignoring these signs can delay diagnosis and reduce treatment success rates.

Reducing Risk: What You Can Do

The good news, say specialists, is that prevention plays a huge role. Steps include:

• Quitting tobacco in all forms.

• Limiting or avoiding alcohol.

• Getting the HPV vaccine.

• Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

• Maintaining oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental checkups.

• Using protective gear if exposed to chemicals or dust at work.

• Undergoing screenings for early detection.

Why Moolchand?

As one of Delhi’s leading hospitals, Moolchand offers:

• Superb surgeons like Dr. Akriti Rastogi with specialized expertise.

• Cutting-edge diagnostic tools for accurate staging and treatment planning.

• Compassionate care for patients and families.

• Integrity in treatment decisions without unnecessary interventions.

• Affordable care, making advanced cancer treatment more accessible.

The Takeaway

Head and neck cancers can be life-threatening, but prevention and awareness can save lives.

“At Moolchand, we focus on both advanced treatment and preventive education,” Dr. Rastogi said. “With awareness, vaccination, and healthier choices, we can significantly reduce the burden of head and neck cancers.”