Non-smokers at risk of head and neck cancers, early diagnosis the key

Bengaluru: It is not just tobacco and cigarette consumers who are suffering from head and neck cancers, but also the larger community of non-users of tobacco and its derivatives, said oncologists.

Puzzled by the sudden increase in such cancers, doctors are advising timely diagnosis for all sections of society.

“The other noticeable trend is the Human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a DNA virus, causing head and neck cancers among non-tobacco consuming community,” said Dr U.S .Vishal Rao, Head and Neck Oncologist, HCG Hospital and a member of the High-Powered Committee for Tobacco Control, Karnataka.

High-risk HPVs cause several types of cancer, but it was found only recently that they were also behind head and neck cancers. “They were earlier known to cause cervical and anal cancers. But now many cases of tonsil and other head and neck cancers too are being linked to HPVs, which is worrying," he said.

Dr P.P. Bapsy, Senior Consultant, Department of Medical Oncology, Apollo Hospitals, said, “It is a different virus strain. HPV is one of the causes or has a high predilection for head and neck cancers among non-smokers and non-chewers.”

“Those who are immuno-compromised are more prone to HPVs which lead to head and neck cancers. HPV is more commonly found in tonsillar cancer than in other head and neck cancers. The importance of HPV status in tonsillar cancer for prognosis remains unclear,” said Dr K.B. Linge Gowda, Director, Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology.

Pap tests

Experts advise pap tests as a preventive measure. “We advise women to get the pap smear done regularly,” said Dr Vishal.