Cancers of the head, neck, and oral cavity account for approximately 550,000 new cases worldwide each year and around four percent of malignant cancers diagnosed in Qatar, according to the 2015 National Qatar Cancer RegistryCancers of the head and neck include tumors in areas above the collarbone, with the three major subdivisions including oral cancer, laryngeal cancer, and nasopharyngeal cancer.  This type of cancer typically starts in the mouth, nose, throat, larynx, sinuses, or salivary glands. There is a significant gender divide in the incidence rate for head and neck cancers, with three times as many men affected as women. Individuals over the age of 50 years are most susceptibleDr. Moustafa Al Khalil, Senior Consultant and Chairman of the Head and Neck Tumor Board at HMC, say symptoms vary depending on where the cancer is located in the head or neck but that pain and a lump or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal are among the most common symptoms“The symptoms of head and neck cancers can include a lump or sore that does not heal, difficulty swallowing, and a change in the sound of the voice (hoarseness). In some cases, head and neck cancers have early warning signs that lead to early diagnosis and a high rate of success in curing the disease. However, the majority of these cancers are diagnosed at a late stage, which makes them more difficult to treat. More than 60 percent of the diagnosed cases of head and neck cancer highlighted in the 2015 National Qatar Cancer Registry study were diagnosed as late stage cancers, with most occurring in individuals between the ages of 45 and 49 years. This is often due to patients experiencing a prolonged period with no symptoms, a delay in seeking medical attention, and late investigation. These factors all contribute to a late diagnosis,” explained Dr. Al Khalil, who is also HMC’s Operating Theater DirectorMajor risk factors for cancers of the head and neck include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and HPV infection. Environmental, hereditary, and occupational risks may also contribute to their development. While advances in treatment options are helping patients live longer, Dr. Al-Hareth M. Al-Khater, Deputy Medical Director at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), says prevention and early detection are the keys to improving patient outcomes.“As is the case with many cancers, head and neck cancer treatment has a much better chance of being successful if the right diagnosis is made early. Advances in surgical techniques, radiation, and chemotherapy are helping patients live longer while preserving their quality of life. However, when possible, prevention of cancer is the best defense. People who consume tobacco and alcohol should aim to quit and reduce their risk of developing these types of cancers,” said Dr. Al-KhaterApril is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month and healthcare professionals from across the world are gathering to raise awareness and broaden public understanding of the disease. As the leading healthcare provider in Qatar, HMC is using the opportunity to raise awareness of head and neck cancers, and cancer in general, by emphasizing the need for prevention and early detection and highlighting the importance of adopting a healthy and active lifestyle as a strategy to help reduce one’s risk of cancer;