Ways to Prevent Head and Neck Cancer
As we hear constantly, there are a number of risks linked to head and neck cancer, many of which can be avoided. Early cancer detection plays an important role in its prognosis. To get the best prognosis, you must reach out to the best cancer doctor in Noida at the earliest. Risk factors For your reference, we have listed below the main factors that can put you at risk for head or neck cancer: ●
Tobacco
Tobacco is a commonly available product in the market and is sold in two forms, snuff and chewing tobacco. Unfortunately, people exposed to secondhand smoking have a higher risk of developing head and neck cancer than people who consume tobacco. Tobacco contains Arecanut, the main component responsible for causing OSMF - Oral SubMucous Fibrosis. This is a premalignant condition and mostly results in cancer development. ●
A combination of tobacco and alcohol
Alcohol and tobacco together provide a synergistic effect for the onset of oral cancer. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 80% of mouth cancers in males are caused due to the combined abuse of alcohol and tobacco. While in women, the percentage is around 65%. ●
Genetics
Genetics also determine the onset of cancer. Not every person consuming two packets of ‘bidi’ (a local Indian cigarette) every day gets oral cancer. At the same time, a person smoking one bidi in two to three days may also get cancer. Prevention of head and neck cancer Researchers are still investigating the variables that cause this type of cancer along with the measures to prevent it. Although there is no way to prevent this condition, there are ways to reduce the risks associated with it. For more information about cancer risks, speak with your healthcare team. Even if you have been a chainsmoker for years, you can reduce or completely get rid of the risks associated with head and neck cancer. Other actions you can undertake to lower your risk of head and neck cancer are: ●
Keeping alcohol out of your system
Alcohol has a great impact on liver metabolism, as well as the entire immune system of the body. Over consumption may lead to metabolic disorders and pave the way for tumour growth and oral cancers. ●
Follow up on cancer screening tests and physical examinations
Cancer screening tests are commonly carried out for individuals with a family or personal history of cancer. It is a test recommended to detect cancer before symptoms appear. The goal is to detect cancer at the earliest possible stage when it is most curable. No screening strategy has been shown to increase survival for persons with head and neck cancer at this time. A yearly physical exam of the head and neck by your primary care doctor is recommended by Memorial Sloan Kettering's doctors. MSK experts also recommend a yearly dental examination. This should involve a neck exam as well as an examination of the oropharynx and mouth. ●
Get the HPV Done
It's also crucial to lower your chances of contracting HPV. The Gardasil HPV vaccine has been authorised by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prevention of certain forms of head and neck cancer. HPV risk can also be reduced by limiting the number of sexual partners you have. Also, you must know that using a condom during intercourse may not provide complete protection. Oral intercourse and multiple sexual partners raise the risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of the middle throat (oropharynx). People who smoke are more likely to get HPV infections because tobacco harms their immune system and the cells that line their throats. These infections are widespread but only cause symptoms in a small percentage of cases.
While the HPV infection has been associated with laryngeal cancer in certain cases, a majority of persons with HPV infections in other areas of the throat do not acquire this illness. Furthermore, most laryngeal and hypopharyngeal malignancies are unrelated to HPV infection. Many head and neck cancer doctors in Noida give good treatment for cancer patients. Other best cancer doctors in Noida offer good support for the patients. (a)The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the world's most common sexually transmitted illness, infecting 14 million people every year. (b)Although the HPV virus is most often associated with the development of cervical cancer, research now shows that the virus is also linked to an increasing number of occurrences of head and neck cancer. (c)Although the vaccine is commonly administered to youngsters between the ages of 11 and 12, it is strongly advised for young women and men between the ages of 26 and 21 who have not yet received it. ●
Maintain good oral hygiene
(d)Oral cancer is commonly caused by irregular teeth brushing and infrequent dental appointments. (e)Simple dental care modifications, such as brushing and flossing after each meal, can significantly reduce your chance of developing oral cancer, as well as gum disease, cavities, damaged teeth, and fillings. Take good care of your dentures- Tobacco and alcohol-related cancer-causing chemicals can be trapped by ill-fitting dentures. Denture wearers should have their dentures examined by a dentist at least once every five years to ensure that they fit properly. Every night, dentures should be removed and carefully cleaned and rinsed. Conclusion Head and neck cancer can interfere with some of the most basic human functions, such as speaking and swallowing. If you are looking for the best oncology doctor in Delhi, you must visit Dr Manish Singhal. Visit Cancer Consult India, where they will provide you with specialised treatments round the clock. They take care of their patients, pre and post-diagnosis! Dr. Manish Singhal is the best oncology doctor in Delhi.