Yearly, the fourth week of April is declared as Head and Neck Consciousness Week by virtue of Presidential Proclamation 1676. This observance is spearheaded by the Philippine Society of Otolaryngology and the Department of Health (DOH) which aims to increase public awareness on the prevention, early diagnosis and treatment on the cancer of head and neck region. Based from the recent data of Philippine Cancer Society and DOH, there are about 12,510 new cases in the Philippines wherein head and neck cancer ranked as number 3 next to lung and breast cancer.

Head and neck cancer includes cancer of the ear and temporal bone, nose, mouth, oropharynx, thyroid and larynx. Since these structures are close to one another, cancer cells may spread to its nearby areas infecting the other organs. According to studies, alcohol and tobacco use are the two main risk factors for head and neck cancer. DOH says that eighty-five percent of head and neck cancer are connected with tobacco use and even secondhand smoke can increase the risk of acquiring this disease. Aside from smoking and drinking, other risk factors associated with this disease are prolonged sun exposure, viral infections, poor oral hygiene and poor diet intake.

Different factors cause different types of cancer. Lowering your risk through practicing a healthy lifestyle has a greater possibility in preventing this disease. If you are one of the persons who smoke and drink alcohol heavily, stopping these unhealthy habits will protect you and the people around you from developing head and neck cancer. In addition using a sunscreen regularly when exposed to the sun from 11 AM to 3 PM will protect you from its harmful effects. Reduce also your risk from viral infections by receiving vaccines and practice good oral hygiene through frequently brushing your teeth and maintaining a proper care of your dentures. Lastly, limit your intake of red, salted and processed meats and eat more fruits and vegetables instead to reduce your risk.

Head and neck cancer might not be completely preventable but people can considerably lower their risk from contracting this disease by avoiding the risk factors that are within their control. Stop smoking and drinking alcohol, submit yourself for immunization, use sun protection, maintain a good oral hygiene and eat a well-balanced diet.  Practicing these healthy habits would mean protecting yourself and your loved ones from having head and neck cancer .

NO I Angelica O. Pajulas