Doctors at Fortis Escorts Jaipur emphasize the significance of regular screening and timely detection in prevention of Head and Neck Cancers

Jaipur, 10th November 2025: Head and Neck cancers account for nearly one-third of all cancer cases in India, making them one of the country’s most common yet preventable cancer. On the occasion of National Cancer Awareness Day, Doctors at Fortis Hospital, Jaipur are urging individuals to recognize early warning signs, avoid high-risk habits such as tobacco and alcohol use, and seek timely medical consultation to enable early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.

According to medical experts, most head and neck cancers, including cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box and sinuses, are associated with to lifestyle habits. Yet, many patients report late, when symptoms have already advanced. The absence of early pain or discomfort often leads to delayed diagnosis, which directly impacts recovery and survival.

Recognizing the early symptoms that warrant medical attention include:

• Non-healing mouth ulcers or white/red patches in the mouth
• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness of voice
• Swelling or lump in the neck or jaw region
• Difficulty in swallowing or constant feeling of something stuck in the throat
• Unexplained weight loss or bleeding from the mouth

Dr Divesh Goyal, Consultant, Oncology, Fortis Escorts Jaipur , said, “Awareness is the cornerstone of prevention. Most head and neck cancers begin as small, easily treatable lesions that go unnoticed or are ignored. Early identification and prompt medical care can prevent them from advancing into life-threatening conditions. People must be alert to symptoms that persist beyond two weeks, especially if they smoke, chew tobacco, or consume alcohol regularly.”

Dr Jitendra Kumar Sharma, Consultant, Surgical Oncology (Head and Neck) , Fortis Escorts, Jaipur, added, “Educating people about the risks of tobacco, oral hygiene and screening can save countless lives. With early detection, we can not only improve survival rates but also preserve vital functions such as speech, swallowing and facial movement, which significantly enhance quality of life after treatment.”
Doctors emphasize that lifestyle modification remains a key preventive tool. Avoiding tobacco and alcohol, maintaining good oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and undergoing regular dental or ENT check-ups are vital steps to lower the risk.

Fortis Hospitals continue to prioritize community education and preventive oncology programs across the country, aimed at increasing awareness, encouraging early consultation, and promoting timely screening, especially in high-risk groups.