Daijiworld Media Network - Mysuru

Mysuru, Apr 25: Early diagnosis can significantly reduce deaths caused by Head and Neck Cancer, medical experts said during a Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month programme held at JSS Hospital.

Inaugurating the programme, Dr Vinaykumar Muttagi, senior radiation oncologist at Bharat Hospital and Institute of Oncology, emphasised that awareness and early detection are the most effective life-saving strategies. He identified smoking and chewing tobacco as the primary causes and noted that these cancers are highly curable when detected at an early stage. He urged people to avoid tobacco and alcohol and seek immediate medical attention for unusual symptoms.

Dr CP Madhu, director of JSS Hospital, said the third week of April is observed as Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week each year. He highlighted that this year’s theme is ‘Early Detection and Prevention Saves Lives’ and added that advances in medical science have significantly improved treatment outcomes, enabling patients to recover and lead normal lives with proper care.

Dr Kiran PK, professor of medical oncology at JSS Hospital, said the campaign aims to spread awareness about early warning signs. He cautioned against ignoring persistent mouth ulcers, throat pain, voice changes and hoarseness, stressing that early consultation improves survival rates.

Dr Bharathi MB, senior physician from the ENT department, warned against the use of gutka, tobacco, betel leaves and beedis. She listed symptoms such as difficulty in swallowing, persistent throat pain and painless lumps or swelling in the neck or face as warning signs that require prompt medical evaluation.

The programme was attended by Dr D Narayanappa and department heads including Dr Ravi Krishnappa, Dr Sandeep S., Dr Manjula BP, Dr Sumit and Dr Amrutha.