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Debunking The Myths: 7 Misconceptions About Head and Neck Cancer You Need to Know

Despite their prevalence, myths about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of head and neck cancer persist. Learn facts about this cancer from the expert.
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Debunking The Myths: 7 Misconceptions About Head and Neck Cancer You Need to Know


When it comes to head and neck cancer, misconceptions can often cloud our understanding, leading to unnecessary fear and confusion. Many people believe that a persistent sore throat or a cough is an automatic sign of cancer, or that only smokers and heavy drinkers are at risk. These myths not only add to the anxiety surrounding the disease but can also delay crucial medical interventions. To dispel such myths, we spoke to our expert Dr Nishil Gowda, Consultant – Medical Oncology, Ramaiah Institute of Oncology, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, Bengaluru, who debunked seven common myths about head and neck cancer.   

Head and neck cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, impacting thousands of people each year. Head and neck cancer is the fifteenth leading cause of cancer death in the UK and the seventh most common cancer globally, affecting approximately 4,100 individuals annually, according to Cancer Research UK.

Myths And Facts About Head And Neck Cancer

Myth 1: A persistent cough or throat sensation is a clear indication of cancer

chronic-cough

Fact - A persistent cough or the sense that something got stuck in the throat (known as the globus sensation) might be concerning signs. “However, these are not strong signs of head and neck cancer.

More common symptoms include throat soreness, especially unilateral, chronic voice alterations, and trouble swallowing (dysphagia or odynophagia). While these symptoms require medical treatment, they are not limited to cancer and can be linked to a variety of other disorders,” said Dr Gowda. Early consultation with a healthcare expert is critical for a correct diagnosis and treatment.

Myth 2: Head and neck cancer is only caused by smoking and drinking

Fact - “While smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are major risk factors for head and neck cancer, they are not the only causes. Other risk factors include poor dental hygiene, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection, and occupational exposure to certain chemicals and dust,” added Dr Gowda.

Men are at a larger risk than women, and the likelihood of having these cancers rises with age, especially after 50. Understanding the various risk factors can assist in the prevention and early detection of head and neck cancer.

Also Read: Link Between Cancer And Chronic Diseases: Expert Explains Impact Of Chronic Diseases On Cancer Treatment

Myth 3: Mobile phones and microwaves cause brain tumours

using-mobile

Fact - “The idea that radiation from mobile phones and microwaves might cause brain tumours is a common myth. Studies have found little to no link between Radiofrequency Radiation (RFR) from these devices and the development of malignant or benign brain tumours,” noted Dr Gowda.

Brain tumours are rarely associated with head and neck cancer and are instead linked to genetic abnormalities and other variables. While it is always a good idea to exercise caution while using technology, current evidence does not support the premise that regular use of mobile phones or microwaves poses a considerable cancer risk.

Myth 4: Head and neck cancer is one type of cancer

Fact - Head and neck cancer is a broad term that refers to a variety of cancers that can originate in more than 30 distinct locations of the head and neck. These include cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, nose, sinuses, salivary glands, and middle ear. Each variety has a unique set of symptoms, risk factors, and treatment regimens. Recognising this variation is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

Myth 5: Head and neck cancers are inevitably fatal

head-cancer

Fact - The chances of survival for head and neck cancers are highly dependent on the stage at which they are diagnosed. Early-stage cancers are typically more curable and have a greater survival rate.

“Cancer treatment options depend on the cancer's location and may involve surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy. Locally spread cancers frequently require a combination of treatments. Many head and neck cancers can now be properly treated, resulting in higher survival rates and a better quality of life,” highlighted Dr Gowda.

Also Read: Cancer Complications: Expert Explains Its Life-Threatening Complications And Management Measures

Myth 6: Treatment will have a permanent effect on my ability to speak, breathe, and swallow

Fact - While medical treatments for head and neck cancers can impair skills including speaking, breathing, and swallowing, the effects are not necessarily permanent. Many people restore their abilities with time and the right therapy.

“For example, patients are supported throughout their treatment and recovery by a multidisciplinary team that includes speech and language therapists in some hospitals. Some patients may develop long-term or late effects of treatment, however, these concerns are usually manageable and mitigated. Continuous follow-up care is critical for addressing any long-term negative effects”, added Dr Gowda.

Myth 7: Emergency surgery is always required for brain tumours caused by cancer

Fact - “Not all brain tumours require immediate surgery. Metastatic brain tumours, which spread to the brain from other areas of the body, are frequently associated with neurological symptoms, such as headaches and seizures. However, steroids are often used to treat these symptoms and minimise brain swelling,” said Dr Gowda.

Surgery has only deemed an emergency if there is considerable cerebral compression or tumour-related bleeding. Most brain metastases are treated with targeted radiation therapy, which does not require an incision and is conducted on an elective basis.

[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]

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