Head and neck cancer: truths, myths and why prevention can save lives

Head and neck cancer: truths, myths and why prevention can save lives

This type of cancer is one of the most frequent in the world and its early detection can improve the prognosis. How to prevent it and detect it in time.

Head and neck cancer covers Tumors that can affect the mouth, the pharynx, the larynx, the nasal cavity, the thyroid, the salivary glands and the skin. Prevention and early consultation with persistent symptoms are key to reducing complications and guarantee timely treatments that improve the quality of life.

Each July 27 He commemorated World Cancer and Neck Day with the aim of making visible the importance of checks, care habits and access to reliable information to accompany those who face This disease.

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This type of cancer is one of the most frequent in the world.

This type of cancer is one of the most frequent in the world.

CDC

What do specialists say about the disease

Marcelo FigariHead and Neck Surgeon and Honorary Rector of the Italian Hospital University, explains that this type of cancer is among the oncological diagnoses more frequent worldwide. “Head and neck cancer represents one of the most frequent oncological diagnoses worldwide. According to the global cancer observatory, it presents an incidence of 12 cases every 100,000 inhabitants. This represents some 6,500 new diagnoses per year In the world, ”he details.

In addition, the specialist underlines the importance of clear information for early detection: “Precise information can make a big difference in timely treatment”. Thus highlighting the need to consult against symptoms such as mouth injuries that do not heal, difficulty swallowing or voice changes.

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It can affect mouth, larynx, pharynx, thyroid, glands and skin.

It can affect mouth, larynx, pharynx, thyroid, glands and skin.

Myths and truths about head and neck cancer

What you have to know:

  • “It only affects adults” MYTH: Although it is more common in adults, cases in children can also be seen, especially in the thyroid and soft tissue of the head and neck, although less frequently compared to adults.
  • “Smoking contributes to the development of this type of cancer” TRUE: tobacco, in all its forms,It is one of the main risk factors along with alcohol. According to the International Cancer Research Center (CIIC), it is the main cause of alterations associated with these tumors.
  • “There are no treatments available in Argentina”MYTH: In our country there are high complexity treatments. In the Italian hospital, for example, surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy with state -of -the -art technologies are combined, such as robotic surgery and reconstructive microcirgery. In addition, comprehensive phonoaudiological and kinesiological rehabilitation is offered.
  • “It can be prevented”TRUE: In a very high percentage of cases, it can be prevented by avoiding tobacco, alcohol and pollution, vaccinating against the human papillomavirus, taking care of oral health and protecting itself from prolonged exposure to the sun. In addition, it is advisable to frequently attend the dentist and dermatologist.
  • “It affects only the internal organs of head and neck”MYTH: This cancer can compromise several entities of the aerodigestive path (Boca, pharynx, larynx and nasal cavity) as well as thyroid, salivary glands and even skin. Hence the importance of regular checks and medical consultation before persistent symptoms.

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Tobacco and alcohol are key risk factors in these tumors.

Tobacco and alcohol are key risk factors in these tumors.

The weekly

Prevention, treatments and medical training

Figari points out that in Argentina there are High complexity treatments that combine surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, in addition to phonoaudiological and kinesiological rehabilitation. In the Italian hospital, these alternatives include Robotic surgery and reconstructive microsurgery With state -of -the -art technology.

“Continuous training is key for more professionals to provide a comprehensive, ethical and updated approach in the treatment of these tumors,” says Figari. In that line, the Italian hospital university promotes the Biannual Course of Head and Neck Surgery For residents and professionals throughout Latin America, articulated with the Argentine Association of Head and Neck Surgery.

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Prevention and medical controls allow early diagnoses.

Prevention and medical controls allow early diagnoses.

This World Day invites demystify and promote Responsible information on head and neck cancer. The combination of prevention, medical technology and professional training It is essential to improve results and guarantee quality care for people who face this disease.

Source: Ambito

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