Dr. Dandu Hemanth Naga Varma, Consultant Surgical Ongologist, HCG Cancer Hospital, Vizag
It often starts in a way that feels almost too ordinary to worry about, a sore throat that lingers a little too long, a voice that sounds slightly different, or the uncomfortable feeling that something is stuck in the throat. Most people brush it off as stress, a seasonal infection, or simple irritation. But sometimes, these small changes are the body’s early signals that something more serious is developing in areas like the mouth, throat, voice box, or nasal passages, which are collectively linked to Head and neck cancer. The challenge is that these early clues are subtle enough to blend into everyday life, making them easy to ignore until they begin to persist.
In many cases, the earliest signs are subtle but persistent. A sore throat that does not improve, difficulty swallowing, or a constant sensation of something stuck in the throat may be early indicators. Some individuals may also notice changes in their voice, such as hoarseness that lasts for weeks, or mild pain while speaking or swallowing.
Unusual lumps or swelling in the neck, jaw, or mouth should never be ignored. These may be painless at first but can indicate enlarged lymph nodes or abnormal growths. In some cases, a lump in the neck may be the first visible sign of cancer spreading from another area in the head or neck.
Mouth-related symptoms are also common. Persistent ulcers, red or white patches inside the mouth, or unexplained bleeding can be early indicators. These changes may seem minor but can signal precancerous or cancerous conditions if they do not heal over time.
Other symptoms to watch for include unexplained weight loss, frequent nosebleeds, or ongoing nasal congestion that does not improve. Ear pain, particularly when it occurs without any apparent ear infection, can also be a sign due to shared nerve pathways in the head and neck region.
Although these symptoms can often be caused by minor illnesses, their persistence beyond a normal recovery period should not be overlooked and may warrant medical evaluation.
Certain risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of developing cancers in the head and neck region, including Head and neck cancer. Among the most well-established causes is tobacco use in any form—whether smoking cigarettes, cigars, or using smokeless products like chewing tobacco. Tobacco contains a wide range of carcinogenic chemicals that directly damage the DNA of cells lining the mouth, throat, and voice box. With repeated exposure over time, this damage accumulates, increasing the chances of abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth.
Heavy and regular alcohol consumption is another major contributing factor. Alcohol acts as an irritant to the delicate tissues in the upper aerodigestive tract, making them more vulnerable to damage from other carcinogens, especially tobacco. When alcohol and tobacco use are combined, their harmful effects are not just additive but synergistic, meaning the risk of developing cancer increases dramatically compared to using either substance alone.
In addition to lifestyle habits, infection with Human papillomavirus has emerged as an important cause, particularly in cancers of the throat and tonsil region. Certain high-risk strains of this virus can integrate into the host’s cells and interfere with normal cellular control mechanisms, leading to persistent infection and, over time, malignant transformation. Unlike tobacco or alcohol-related cancers, HPV-associated cancers may develop even in individuals without traditional risk behaviours.
Over time, continuous exposure to these risk factors damages the normal repair mechanisms of the body. Cells in the affected areas may begin to grow and divide abnormally, forming precancerous changes that can eventually progress into cancer if not detected and addressed early. This is why reducing exposure to these risks and maintaining regular health check-ups are so important in prevention and early detection.
Finally, the key to tackling head and neck cancers lies in awareness and early action. Recognizing persistent or unusual symptoms and seeking timely medical advice can make a life-saving difference. Even though many of these signs may be caused by less serious conditions, it is always better to have them evaluated rather than overlooked.