World Head And Neck Cancer Day 2023

Welcome to our blog! Today, we are honored to bring your attention to a significant event in the field of oncology, which is head and neck cancer day. The International Federation of Head and Neck Oncology Societies declared the 27th of July as world head and neck cancer day. This day holds immense importance as it serves as a platform to raise awareness about head and neck cancers. 
 

According to the latest report by the Indian Council Of Medical Research (ICMR) in 2021, head and neck cancers constituted a substantial 21.3 percent of all cancer cases in India. More than half of the reported head and neck cancers in both males (53.7%)  and females (54%) occurred in the age group of 45-64 years. 
 

What Is Head And Neck Cancer? 

Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers that affect the tissues in the head and neck region, including the mouth, throat, and salivary glands. It is linked to risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, and HPV infection.
 

Goal Of The Special Day

The primary goal of this blog is to raise awareness about head and neck cancers on world head and neck cancer day. By providing valuable insights and information, this day aims to educate our readers about the prevalence, risks, symptoms, and preventive measures related to these cancers. This day’s mission is to empower individuals with knowledge, fostering early detection and timely intervention to improve outcomes and support those affected by this challenging disease. 
 

Risk Factors Of Head And Neck Cancers

Among all the risk factors, the two risk factors posing as major factors are the use of tobacco and alcohol consumption. People who consume both alcohol and tobacco are more at risk compared to those who use either of the two. 

• Tobacco: Using tobacco in the form of pipes, cigars, cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco (snuffing, chewing, using betel quid) increases the risk of developing head and neck cancers. Second-hand smoke is also associated with the risk of getting head and neck cancers.
• Alcohol: Frequent and excessive consumption of alcohol increases the risk of developing head and neck cancers.
   

Other Risk Factors

• Old age
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection
• Family history of head and neck cancers
• Occupational exposure to wood dust, asbestos, nickel, formaldehyde, and other chemicals
• Exposure to radiation
• Exposure to UV rays from sun and tanning beds
• Poor oral and dental health
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD)
• Weak immune system
• Comsumption of foods that can cause cancer
   

Prevention Of Head And Neck Cancers

The following preventive measures can help reduce the risk of getting head and neck cancers

• Say no to tobacco: Avoiding or stopping tobacco consumption can reduce the risk of developing head and neck cancers.
• No alcohol consumption: Limiting or completely stopping the intake of alcohol can help in lowering the risk of developing head and neck cancers.
• HPV Vaccination: Getting vaccinated for HPV can not only prevent the risk of getting HPV infection but also head and neck cancers.
• Practice safe sex: Safe sexual practices like using condoms and dental dams can prevent HPV infection, lowering the risk of developing head and neck cancers.
• Protective clothing: Wear protective clothing like masks to protect yourself from harmful fumes, dust, and toxins.
• UV protection: Wear sunscreens, scarves, gloves, and an umbrella to protect yourself from harmful UV rays from the sun. Avoid UV rays by limiting exposure time to sun and tanning beds to prevent the risk of developing head and neck cancers.
• Regular dental check-ups: Oral health and hygiene are extremely necessary and require regular visits to the dentist. In certain cases, oral cancers are found during dental check-ups.
• A healthy diet: A clean, healthy, and well-balanced diet is necessary to prevent the risk of developing head and neck cancers and keep overall health in check.

Five Facts

1. Head and neck cancers rank as the seventh most common cancer globally, with 1.1 million new diagnoses reported annually. 

2. Smoking, tobacco use, and heavy alcohol consumption are major risk factors for head and neck cancer.

3. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is also a known risk factor for this type of cancer.

4. Late-stage diagnosis is common, which can complicate treatment options.

5. The cancer's stage and location determine treatment for head and neck cancer and the patient's overall health.
 

How To Raise Awareness? 

Use #headandneckcancerday to share stories and information on social media. Organize events, encourage personal stories, collaborate with influencers, fundraise, and provide online support about head and neck cancer day. 

Awareness Without Action Is Worthless

This World head and neck cancer day 2023 spreads awareness about head and neck cancers through social media, campaigns, etc. Talk to people you know about treatment involving surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. Raise awareness on the harmful effects of alcohol or tobacco on those who consume it. Educate your family and friends about the preventive measures that have to be taken to stay away from head and neck cancer. Before creating awareness among others, ensure that you follow the preventive measures as the change begins with you.