27 July is World Head and Neck Cancer Day. Head and neck carcinoma is on the rise and is now the sixth most common cancer worldwide.1 Early diagnosis is key to achieving the best patient outcomes. The MercyAscot Head and Neck Service provides a fast-tracked diagnostic service, supported by a multi-disciplinary team of specialists who work together to deliver integrated treatment plans and support services for patients. The one-stop diagnostic clinic provides an on-the-spot diagnostic service for patients with worrying neck lumps. Take a look at our unique service offering in this video.

Find out more here.

Head and neck cancer

Head and neck carcinoma is now the sixth most common cancer worldwide, with 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 Head and neck cancer typically affects men more than women — particularly those aged 50 and over.1

“There are several risk factors for head and neck carcinoma including UV or sun exposure, smoking, heavy alcohol intake, and human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV exposure is increasing dramatically with a corresponding increase in the incidence of throat cancer — particularly over the last two decades,” says Mr Rajan Patel.

“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.”

Red flag signs and symptoms

According to Mr 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 persists for three or more weeks
Change in the voice
Difficulty swallowing
One-sided nasal block or obstruction
One-sided ear pain, with a normal ear examination
Any changes in the mouth such as oral ulcers, or swelling, or white or red patches that persist for more than three weeks.