TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Cancer Head and neck is a term used to describe a number of malignant tumors that develop in or around the throat, larynx (voice box), nose, tonsils, sinuses, and mouth. According to Globocan 2020 data, the new incidence of head and neck cancer in the world is 932,000 which is the sum of cancers of the lips and oral cavity, tongue, oropharynx, hypopharynx, larynx, nasopharynx, and salivary glands.
Not only that, head and neck cancer is listed as the seventh leading cause of death in the world and 5 percent of all cancers in the world. Malignant head and neck cancer can physically change the shape of the face, either due to the development of cancer or treatment. Thus said specialist in medical oncology consultant hematology, dr. Rismauli Doloksaribu, Sp.PD-KHOM.
“Patients will get complaints in the form of swallowing, eating, even speaking disorders. Therefore, people need to be aware of the causes of head and neck cancer to avoid this deadly disease,” said Risma.
Neck and head cancer is usually found in people over 50 years old and is twice as common in men. Meanwhile, the biggest risk factors are smoking and drinking alcohol. People who smoke and drink at the same time have a higher risk of developing head and neck cancer. In addition, people who are infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV) or who are transmitted through sexual contact can also develop head and neck cancer.
Other risk factors include prolonged sun exposure, Epstein-Barr virus, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), poor oral and dental hygiene, inhalation of toxic substances in the environment or work, and poor nutrition.
Risma explained that it is very important to be more sensitive in knowing and feeling the signs and symptoms of head and neck cancer from the start. Signs to watch for include asymptomatic neck lumps, painful mucosal ulceration, visible mucosal lesions in the mouth area, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing.
Symptom further depending on the location and extent of the tumor, including pain, nerve palsy, paresthesias, ie tingling or numbness, trismus or stiffness in the jaw and neck region, which makes it difficult to open the mouth. In addition, halitosis or bad breath can also be found which can be caused by poor oral hygiene, illness, or an unhealthy lifestyle.
“Considering the severe suffering of head and neck cancer, the public is advised to adopt a healthy lifestyle by stopping smoking, not drinking alcohol, using adequate sunscreen, reducing the risk of HPV and HIV infection, maintaining cleanliness and taking care of teeth and mouth,” said Risma. .
Treatment of head and neck cancer is mainly through surgery, radiation with or without chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. This treatment option will adjust to the level of cancer development (stage) and the location of the cancer experienced by the patient.
The implementation of therapy for patients needs to be carefully planned by a team of doctors with backgrounds in different disciplines, such as ENT doctors, radiotherapy, medical oncologists, who in Indonesia are known as blood disease and cancer consultants, and even requires the involvement of nutritionists and medical rehabilitation to get results treatment optimal.
“If detected and treated early, head and neck cancer as in other types of cancer can provide better treatment outcomes and a better quality of life for patients,” he said.
Getting used to a clean and healthy lifestyle is very important to avoid various diseases, including head and neck cancer, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eating a balanced nutritious diet, exercising actively, and maintaining adequate sleep patterns are very important.
Also read: The Importance of Fulfillment of Nutrition in Cancer Patients during a Pandemic
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