Specialist doctor of oncology (cancer) surgery and doctor of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia Dr. dr. Diani Kartini, SpB(K)Onk provides several simple ways that can be done to check symptoms of head and neck cancer independently at home.
“Usually, self-screening that most people know about is only for symptoms of breast cancer, but actually we can also detect symptoms of head and neck cancer independently,” said Diani in an online discussion at Medistra Hospital, Friday.
Diani said head and neck cancer is a term used to define cancer that develops in the mouth, throat, nose, salivary glands, or other areas of the head and neck. This cancer usually appears in the squamous cells that line the mouth, throat (pharynx), and voice box (larynx).
Because of its location in the respiratory tract, head and neck cancer and the side effects of its treatment can interfere with the sufferer’s ability to eat, swallow and breathe.
Diani said that the most common types of head and neck cancer in Indonesia are cancer of the nasopharynx, thyroid and oral cavity.
“For example, for oral cavity cancer, we can check how healthy our teeth are, by looking in the mirror and opening our mouths and seeing if there is a different anatomy from before, then we can also use our two fingers to feel in the mouth whether there is a lump or not,” explained Diani.
In addition, canker sores that don’t heal can also be an indication of cancer in the oral cavity. Diani recommends immediately seeing a doctor if canker sores continue for more than two weeks.
Meanwhile, for thyroid symptoms, according to Diani, it is quite easy to detect, namely just feeling the neck area with both hands. If you find a lump, immediately consult a doctor.
As for the causes of head and neck cancer, 75 to 85 percent are caused by tobacco use, including smoking hand-rolled cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and even consuming chewing tobacco regularly. Consuming alcohol can also be a cause.
Editor : Bima Agustian
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2023-08-25 16:35:00
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