Prevention

Know the Pharyngeal Cancer Risk Factors

As with many cancers, the risk of developing pharyngeal cancer increases with age. Men are more likely to develop pharyngeal cancer than women, with most people being over the age of 65.

Risk factors for pharyngeal cancer differ depending on where the cancer grows in the throat.

Common risk factors for nasopharyngeal cancer include:

• Contracting Epstein-Barr virus
• Diet high in salt

Common risk factors for oropharyngeal cancer include:

• Tobacco use
• Excessive alcohol use
• Poor nutrition
• Contracting human papillomavirus (HPV)

Common risk factors for hypopharyngeal cancer include:

• Tobacco use
• Excessive alcohol use
• Diet low in vitamins A and E
• Workplace exposure to asbestos and/or other inhalants
• Plummer-Vinson syndrome, which causes difficulty swallowing

NOTE: Anything that increases your risk of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer. Not having risk factors doesn’t mean that you will not get cancer. If you think you may be at risk, you should discuss it with your doctor

EARLY DETECTION

The earlier cancer is detected the better are the chances of cure and complete recovery. It is important to realize that many cancers today are curable.

Monthly self examination by each and every one of us will go a long way in detecting cancer at the early stage. One can stand in front of large mirror and look for the following : -

• Mouth : Change in colour of gums, lips and cheeks, White, Brown or red patches, ulcer, sore or scab, thickening in any part of the oral cavity.
• Neck : Look for any lump, swelling or any other abnormality.

If you find anything abnormal, record it on a notebook and report it to your doctor. In case everything is normal, RELAX!

ANNUAL HEALTH CHECK UP

For all Head and Neck Cancer Dental and ENT Check up is must for both the sexes. In case of suspicion, one should go for Endoscopy, biopsy, X-Ray, CT – Scan, MRI, PET CT

This is most important for all of us because it is through these annual check ups that we can find out about the status of our health.

HOW TO PREVENT

• Avoid active and passive smoking.
• Avoid Tobacco and Tobacco Products like Gutkha, Paan, Khaini, Surti, Beedi, Cigarette
• Avoid Alcohol
• Maintain Good oral and dental hygiene

All smokers and tobacco chewers need several counselling sessions to leave the habit and ensure they do not start taking tobacco, after quitting it.