An overview of head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancers happen due to abnormal multiplication and division of the cells. These cancers occur in the squamous cells lining the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck. These cancers can potentially spread and affect the surrounding tissues and lymph nodes. The cancers of mouth, oropharynx, larynx, nasopharynx, nasal cavity, paranasal sinus, tonsil, and salivary gland comes under head and neck cancers. Head and neck cancers do not include cancers of the brain and eyes.

Various risk factors are associated with the development of head and neck cancers. However, the two major risk factors are tobacco and alcohol consumption. Other risk factors include infections of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), history of head and neck cancers, old age, diseases like Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD), weakened immune system, exposure to radiation, poor oral and dental health, poor dietary choices.

Pain in the face and neck, speaking difficulty, trouble swallowing, unusual bleeding in the mouth, trouble hearing, unexplained weight loss, bad breath, fatigue, loose teeth, tooth loss, changing voice, lump in the head or neck that may or may not be painful, formation of red and white patches in the mouth, bleeding from the nose, nasal congestion, discharge from the nose, breathlessness are some symptoms of head and neck cancers.

Prevention is better than cure. Cancers of the head and neck are common. But by following preventive measures, their development risk can be reduced. Quitting tobacco, not smoking, stopping alcohol consumption, getting vaccinated, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a healthy weight, and making healthy dietary choices are some preventive measures that can help decrease the risk of developing head and neck cancers.

Physical examinations, biopsy, blood tests, urine tests, endoscopic examination, CT scans, MRI, PETs, bone scans, and ultrasounds are diagnostic methods used to diagnose head and neck cancers. Various treatment options available for the treatment of head and neck cancers are surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Depending upon the cancer type, its spread, and your overall health, your doctor will suggest the treatment mentioned above, either alone or in combination.

Daxotel 120mg Injection is a medication used to treat head and neck cancers. It is a chemotherapy medication that contains the active ingredient Docetaxel. Daxotel 120mg Injection works by producing an inhibitory effect on microtubule structures responsible for promoting the multiplication and division of cancer cells. As a result of inhibition of the microtubule structures, the growth of the cancer cells slows down. Depending upon the type of cancer, its stage, and your overall health, your doctor might prescribe you Daxotel 120mg Injection.