Head & Neck Cancers

Head and Neck Cancer

Oral Cavity Cancer (Mouth Cancer)

  • Epidemiology – The Tamil Nadu Picture: In India, oral cavity cancer is the most common cancer among men, and Tamil Nadu is one of the states where it is seen very often. Nationally, India contributes nearly one-third of the world’s oral cancer cases. In Tamil Nadu, many cases are linked to habits like betel nut chewing, tobacco (both smoking and chewing), and alcohol. These cancers are often seen in men from rural areas, though women are not spared.

  • Why Does This Cancer Develop: The lining of the mouth is very delicate. Constant irritation from tobacco, betel nut, or alcohol is like repeatedly scratching the same spot — over years, the cells change and may turn cancerous. Other reasons include ill-fitting dentures, HPV virus infection, and poor oral hygiene.

  • How Doctors Diagnose It: Most people notice a non-healing ulcer, a white or red patch, or swelling in the mouth. In Tamil Nadu, oral cancer screening camps (often free) are organized in villages and cities, so people can be checked early. Doctors confirm the diagnosis by oral examination, endoscopy if needed, biopsy, and imaging (CT/MRI/PET).

  • Staging – How Doctors Decide: Cancer is like a fire: Stage I–II means the fire is only in one room (early stage), Stage III–IV means it has spread to other rooms or outside (advanced). Doctors use TNM staging but also consider the patient’s nutrition and health

  • Treatment Journey: Early cancers: Surgery is often curative. Advanced cancers: Combination of surgery + radiotherapy ± chemotherapy. Oral Cancer Last Stage Symptoms : Surgeons rebuild the face or jaw using tissue flaps. Tamil Nadu has excellent microvascular reconstruction expertise (in Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore).

  • After Treatment & Survivorship: Regular follow-ups every 2–3 months in the first year, then less often. Doctors check for recurrence, speech/swallowing problems. Speech therapy, diet counseling, and dental rehabilitation are part of recovery. Many survivors return to work and live healthy lives.

Conclusion

Head & Neck cancers are largely preventable. If tobacco, alcohol, and betel nut are avoided, most oral, throat, and voice box cancers will disappear. With timely treatment, most head & neck cancer patients can live a full, meaningful life.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common cancer in the head and neck region is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). It develops in the mucosal lining of areas like the mouth, throat, and voice box. SCC is strongly linked to tobacco, alcohol use, and HPV infection, making early detection and lifestyle changes essential.

Yes, many head and neck cancers can be cured, especially when detected early. Treatment often includes surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination. Outcomes depend on the cancer’s stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Early diagnosis and timely treatment greatly improve long-term survival and recovery.

Head and neck cancer is diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination, imaging tests, and tissue analysis. Doctors check for lumps, sores, or voice changes, followed by scans like CT, MRI, or PET. A biopsy is performed to confirm the cancer type. Early evaluation helps ensure faster and more effective treatment.

Our Doctors

Dr. V. Balasundaram

Dr. V. Balasundaram

Dr. V. M. Duraimavalavan

Dr. V. M. Duraimavalavan

Dr. Saravanan Periasamy

Dr. Saravanan Periasamy