Head & Neck Cancer

In the journey against head & neck cancer, every step forward is backed by an army of support, showing that strength lies not just in the individual, but in the unity of those who stand together.

About
Risk Factors & Preventions
Screening
Symptoms & Signs
Diagnosis
Sub-type and stages

Breast Cancer

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a prevalent form of cancer globally, affecting approximately one in eight women during their lifetime. It can manifest in one or both breasts and may occur in various parts of the breast tissue. Breast cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth within the breast, which has the potential to spread to surrounding tissues. While the majority of cases occur in women, it’s important to note that men can also develop breast cancer, albeit less frequently.

Head & Neck Cancer

What is Head & Neck cancer?

Head and neck cancers refer to malignancies that originate in the organs and tissues of the head and neck region. These cancers can develop in various areas, including the oral cavity, larynx (voice box), throat, lips, mouth, nose, and salivary glands.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Several factors increase the risk of developing head and neck cancer, including:

Risk Factor:
  • Tobacco use and alcohol consumption
  • Poor oral and dental hygiene
  • Radiation exposure
  • Viral infections (such as HPV and EBV)
  • Weak immunity (e.g., post-organ transplantation, HIV)
  • Previous history of head and neck cancer
  • Exposure to toxic fumes from formaldehyde, plastic, rubber, and textile industries
Preventive Measures
  • Quit tobacco products and limit alcohol consumption
  • Avoid the use of marijuana
  • Maintain good oral hygiene and dental care, including proper care of dentures
  • When exposed to toxic fumes, wear a protective face mask to reduce inhalation of harmful substances.
Screening for Head & Neck Cancer

Screening for head and neck cancer typically involves a simple examination conducted by a doctor. This examination includes palpation of the neck to detect any lumps or abnormalities and a visual inspection of the nose, mouth, and throat for any signs of irregularities.

Symptoms & Signs
Head and neck cancer may present with various symptoms and signs, including:
  • Swelling or a persistent sore or ulcer that does not heal.
  • White or red patches in the mouth.
  • Presence of a lump, bump, or mass in the head or neck area.
  • Persistent throat pain or discomfort.
  • Hoarseness or changes in voice quality.
  • Swelling or a persistent sore or ulcer that does not heal.
  • White or red patches in the mouth.
  • Presence of a lump, bump, or mass in the head or neck area.
  • Persistent throat pain or discomfort.
  • Hoarseness or changes in voice quality.
Diagnosis
To evaluate signs and symptoms suggestive of head and neck cancer, doctors may perform various tests, including:
  • Physical examination: A thorough examination of the head, neck, mouth, and throat to detect any abnormalities or signs of cancer.
  • Endoscopy: A procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the nose, mouth, throat, or other areas.
  • Biomarker testing: Testing for specific biomarkers associated with head and neck cancer to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • Biopsy: Removal of a small tissue sample from the suspicious area for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of cancer.
  • Ultrasound: Imaging technique using sound waves to create detailed images of the head and neck structures, helping to detect abnormalities or evaluate lymph nodes.
  • Physical examination: A thorough examination of the head, neck, mouth, and throat to detect any abnormalities or signs of cancer.
  • Endoscopy: A procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the nose, mouth, throat, or other areas.
  • Biomarker testing: Testing for specific biomarkers associated with head and neck cancer to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • Biopsy: Removal of a small tissue sample from the suspicious area for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of cancer.
  • Ultrasound: Imaging technique using sound waves to create detailed images of the head and neck structures, helping to detect abnormalities or evaluate lymph nodes.
Sub-Types:
  • Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer
  • Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer
  • Nasopharyngeal cancer
  • Oral and oropharyngeal cancer
  • Salivary gland cancer
Stages:
Head and neck cancer is typically staged using the TNM staging method, which considers:
  • Tumor (T): Location and size of the tumor
  • Node (N): Presence of cancer cells in the lymph nodes
  • Metastasis (M): Spread of cancer to other organs in the body
  • Tumor (T): Location and size of the tumor
  • Node (N): Presence of cancer cells in the lymph nodes
  • Metastasis (M): Spread of cancer to other organs in the body
Treatment Modalities
  • Surgical Oncology: Various forms of surgery, including:
    – Laser Surgery
    – Excision with Lymph Node Dissection, aimed at removing cancerous tumors.
  • Medical Oncology: Not all patients with head and neck cancer require surgery. Several effective chemotherapy medications have been developed, which can be used before, during, or after surgery or radiation therapy. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
  • Radiation Oncology: Utilizes focused beams of high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells while minimizing toxicity and improving treatment outcomes.
Coping with Treatment:

In addition to managing the physical side effects of head and neck cancer therapy, patients often face financial burdens and emotional and social challenges. Oncowin offers psycho-oncology counseling and nutritional counseling services to assist patients in navigating these challenges and improving their overall well-being.

Do’s and Don’ts During Treatment:
Do’s:
  • Practice good oral hygiene to maintain oral health.
  • Have a dental examination before starting therapy to address any existing dental issues.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration.
Don’ts:
  • Avoid skipping meals to ensure proper nutrition and energy levels.
  • Take precautions to avoid infections by practicing good hygiene and following medical advice.
  • Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products, as they can exacerbate treatment side effects and hinder healing.
  • Avoid foods and drinks that can irritate your mouth, such as spicy or acidic foods, to minimize discomfort during treatment.
Post-Treatment Support

After completing treatment, head and neck cancer survivors may experience long-term side effects and adjustments to their appearance and overall well-being. It’s common for individuals to feel fatigued and may experience emotional challenges, including depression. Seeking support from others who have experienced similar challenges can be beneficial for survivors. Connecting with fellow survivors and participating in support groups can provide valuable emotional support and insights into coping strategies for life after cancer treatment.

Follow-up Cancer Care Plan:

After completing treatment, it’s crucial to request a follow-up care plan from your healthcare provider. Doctors will create a personalized plan based on the specific type and stage of cancer you’ve experienced. This plan typically includes regular check-ups, screenings, and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal health and detect any potential recurrence or complications early on.

Surveillance and Monitoring for Signs & Symptoms of Recurrence

Individuals who have had oral cancer may also be at risk of developing secondary primary tumors in the head and neck area. These tumors are distinct from the original cancer and are not caused by the spread of the original tumor. After treatment, oncologists will monitor patients closely for any symptoms of a new tumor to ensure early detection and prompt intervention if necessary.

Specialists Doctors Who Care For You

Top Oncologists Providing Exceptional Care at Ahmedabad’s Leading Cancer Hospitals 

Slide

DM Medical Oncology,
Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.

DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer

DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer

DM Medical Oncology,
Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.

Slide

MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center

Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary

MD, DNB, FIAP  Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center

Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad

Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology

Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist

Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda

Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology

DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer

Slide

DM Medical Oncology,
Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.

DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer

DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer

DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer

Slide

MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center

Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary

MD, DNB, FIAP  Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center

Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad

Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology

Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist

Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda

Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology

MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center

Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary

Slide

DM Medical Oncology,
Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.

DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer

DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center

Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer

MD, DNB, FIAP  Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center

Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad

Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology

Slide

MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center

Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary

MD, DNB, FIAP  Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center

Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad

Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology

Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist

Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda

Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology

Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist

Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda

Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology

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Appointment

Book your appointment

Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.

Get in touch to book your first appointment

Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.

Book your appointment

Nikol

Paldi

Nava Vadaj

Book your appointment

Appointment

Book your appointment

Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.

Get in touch to book your first appointment

Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.

Book your appointment

Nikol

Paldi

Nava Vadaj

Book your appointment

Slide

“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”

Leela Shah

Cancer Patient

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“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”

Leela Shah

Cancer Patient

PlayPlay
Slide

“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”

Leela Shah

Cancer Patient

PlayPlay
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Slide

“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”

Leela Shah

Cancer Patient

PlayPlay
Slide

“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”

Leela Shah

Cancer Patient

PlayPlay
Slide

“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”

Leela Shah

Cancer Patient

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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Your Questions: Navigate Our Frequently Asked Questions Section

What signs and symptoms are present in head and neck cancer?

Head and neck cancer can manifest with tumors in various areas, including the mouth, throat, nose, thyroid, and sinuses.

Cancer of the head and neck can be detected through various tests, including endoscopy, CT scan, MRI scan, and PET scan.

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