Healthcare (Commonwealth Union) – Head and neck cancers encompass a range of malignancies that affect various parts of the head and neck region, including the mouth, throat, nose, and larynx. These cancers are a significant global health concern, with rising incidence rates in recent years. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for head and neck cancers, as well as the importance of early detection and prevention.
A recent report has highlighted a worrying surge in head and neck cancer diagnoses across England.
From 2013 to 2020, the incidence of head and neck cancers, particularly throat cancer, rose sharply, with a 47% increase in diagnoses. In 2020 alone, England saw over 10,000 new cases of head and neck cancer, along with more than 3,000 deaths.
The study, conducted by the University of Sheffield in partnership with the Department of Health and Social Care, also revealed that individuals in the most deprived areas were almost twice as likely to develop head and neck cancer compared to those in more affluent regions.
Head and neck cancers rank as the sixth most common group of cancers worldwide and are the eighth most common in the UK.
Prevention measures include avoiding tobacco use, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Regular physical activity and limiting sun exposure can also reduce the risk of skin cancer in the head and neck region.
Professor Zoe Marshman, a Professor of Dental Public Health at the University of Sheffield and the report’s lead author, indicated that the findings highlight an alarming rise in head and neck cancers, with significant disparities across the country, particularly a north-south divide.
She further pointed out that individuals living in deprived areas face a much higher risk of being diagnosed with oral, oropharyngeal, and laryngeal cancers, often at later stages, which complicates treatment and reduces the chances of survival.
Professor Marshman indicated that tackling these issues will require a coordinated effort from national and local governments, NHS bodies, and charities to reduce the risk factors for head and neck cancers, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and uptake of the HPV vaccine—challenges that many people find difficult to address alone.
She also indicated that enhancing access to health services, including NHS dental care, is essential for promoting early detection.
Cancers affecting the head and neck region, encompassing areas such as the mouth and throat, are collectively referred to as head and neck cancer.
Professor Ali Khurram, Professor and Honorary Consultant Pathologist, from the University of Sheffield says “Head and neck cancer can have a devastating effect on the lives of people with the disease and their families. Although head and neck cancer is one of the most common cancers in England with a significantly worse survival compared to other cancers, its awareness among the public, health professionals and funding organisations is poor. This report, which is the first of its kind, provides the opportunity to galvanise action to reverse these worrying trends.”
The report underscores the urgency for coordinated efforts from government bodies, health institutions, charitable organizations, and professional associations to tackle the escalating incidence of head and neck cancers. It outlines several crucial recommendations, such as enforcing stringent tobacco control measures to curb smoking rates, encouraging responsible alcohol consumption and reducing excessive drinking, facilitating widespread access to the HPV vaccine linked to specific types of head and neck cancer, and bolstering early detection and diagnosis initiatives, especially in regions with high cancer prevalence.
Additionally, the report emphasizes the significance of advancing research aimed at refining detection and treatment approaches for head and neck cancers, with a particular focus on disadvantaged communities.
