Cancers in the head and throat area are found to be as common as other types of the disease, being ranked in the top 5 among Thai cancer patients.   They include cancers found in thyroid and salivary glands, nasal and oral cavities, as well as pharynx and larynx.  Unfortunately, they are mostly diagnosed after the disease has already spread to other organs, which makes it more difficult to treat than at an early stage. Therefore, cancers of the head and throat areas prevention is an important matter that requires proper attention.  

5 ways to reduce the risks of head and throat cancers are:

1. Avoid Smoking

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, and even chewing tobacco have been found to be major contributing factors of head and throat cancers, accounting for 70-80% of the cases.  The amount and duration of tobacco use will affect the treatment method.  In addition, it is discovered that secondhand smokers also have the same risks. The problem with smoking is that it induces chronic lesion in the oral cavity.  Therefore, quitting smoking will help reduce the risks of cancers in head and throat area.

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2. Avoid Drinking Alcoholic Beverages

Drinking a lot of alcohol habitually can cause cancers of the oral cavity, throat, larynx and upper esophagus.  The greater the amount and frequency of the alcoholic beverages, the higher the cancer risks; especially if coupled with smoking as well.  A reduction or completely quitting will help lessen the threat.

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3. Oral Health Care

Maintaining good oral cavity health – including teeth and gums – is crucial.  It is important not to neglect oral chronic lesions caused by decaying or broken teeth.  A long-term lesion can lead to cancer.   For people who wear dentures should ensure that their dentures have not become loosen.  They should follow a regular oral health check-up schedule every 6 months. 

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4. Get HPV Vaccine to Prevent Head and Throat Cancers

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection can also cause head and throat cancers.  Therefore, vaccination against the 9 HPV strands is important, as it can help prevent certain types head and throat cancers. 

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5. Go See a Doctor If You Have Any of the Symptoms

Paying attention to possible symptoms and promptly consulting a specialist are vital, as the conditions of head and throat cancers depend on the location they occur.  The symptoms are, for example, a chronic lesion in the oral cavity or throat, a growth in the throat, hoarse voice, or bleeding in the throat, etc.  If you observe any of these symptoms and consult a specialist early, this will increase the chances for an effective treatment that will return you to your healthy life again.

 

Head and Throat Cancers are vicious and must be treated before they spread and become more threatening.  Therefore, you need to be vigilant and protect yourself.

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For more information, please contact:

Wattanosoth Cancer Hospital

Tel. 1719