How not to miss head and neck cancer

Head and neck carcinoma is now the sixth most common cancer worldwide.¹ There are over 500,000 cases and 200,000 head and neck cancer-related deaths globally each year.¹ In New Zealand, cases continue to increase with approximately 545 new cases in 2019.²

Mr Rajan Patel, leading otolaryngologist, head and neck surgeon at MercyAscot Head and Neck Service explains red flag signs and symptoms that may suggest head and neck cancer.

“The good news is that many of these patients can be cured if they are treated early enough³ which is why World Head and Neck Cancer Day on July 27 is such an important initiative,” says Mr Rajan Patel.

“The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of head and neck cancers amongst the public and health professionals, and help patients access the services they need at an earlier stage of disease.”

Head and neck cancer is a relatively common cancer worldwide, and typically affects men more than women – particularly those aged 50 and over.¹

“There are several risk factors including UV or sun exposure – which relates primarily to skin cancer and melanoma, smoking, heavy alcohol intake, and human papillomavirus (HPV),” says Mr Rajan Patel.

“HPV exposure is increasing dramatically, and unfortunately we are seeing a corresponding increase in the incidence of throat cancer – particularly over the past two decades.”

Presenting symptoms and signs associated with head and neck cancer are common, and include a sore throat or a change in voice. However, a very small number of these patients would go on to have a sinister head and neck cancer diagnosis.

“Without the necessary equipment it is difficult for a GP to make an accurate diagnosis, which is why we have specialists at MercyAscot Head and Neck Service who are able to do this for patients presenting with red flag symptoms. If in doubt, we highly recommend you make a referral so that we can provide specialised care for your patient.”

According to Mr Rajan Patel, red flag signs and symptoms to watch out for when assessing patients with a potential head and neck cancer diagnosis can include:

• A new neck lump that persist for three or more weeks
• Any changes in the mouth such as oral ulcers, or swelling, or white or red patches that persist for more than three weeks
• Change in the voice
• Difficulty swallowing
• One-sided nasal block or obstruction
• One-sided ear pain with a normal ear examination

About the MercyAscot Head and Neck Service

The MercyAscot Head and Neck Service provides a comprehensive, streamlined and multi-disciplinary service, and a unique wrap-around support service for patients with head and neck conditions.

Neck Lump Clinic – a one-stop diagnostic clinic with a multi-disciplinary team

The MercyAscot Head and Neck Service Neck Lump Clinic provides a comprehensive and streamlined diagnostic service for patients with suspected neck lumps.

The multi-disciplinary team that forms part of our flagship Neck Lump Clinic includes a radiologist and pathologist working alongside head and neck surgeons. Our accelerated pathway allows patients to receive a diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan in one 45-minute appointment – providing fast access for patients from early diagnosis, through to treatment – removing the need for multiple appointments.

Based in Auckland, the clinic is now available in Epsom and Takapuna for your patients’ convenience.

Patient support group

Patients having treatment at the MercyAscot Head and Neck Service have access to a range of support services from a nurse specialist, dietitians, speech language therapists, physiotherapists and psychologists throughout their treatment journey.

The MercyAscot Head and Neck Service also offers a patient support group, led by patients who have been through the cancer journey.

CME Learning

Listen to Mr Rajan Patel's latest Goodfellow Unit podcast on 'Neck lumps in adults'.

You may also like to complete a short course on neck lumps and earn CPD points via SR e-learning.