Head & Neck Oncology

Unlike cancer in the Western countries, about 40 % of all cancers in India are of head and neck alone because of the high consumption of tobacco (gutkha) from an early age. Therefore head and neck oncology is one of the thrust areas of NH. As this cancer and its treatment can potentially affect various vital functions such as speech, swallowing and appearance, the goal of NH head and neck oncology comprehensive cancer service is to mitigate these functional and aesthetic issues by incorporating advanced minimally invasive technology, organ and function preservation strategies, molecularly targeted personalized therapy, advanced microvascular reconstruction and total rehabilitation. The Head & Neck cancer unit at MSCC consists of multidisciplinary team of globally recognized surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, ENT otolaryngologists, speech language pathologists, audiologists and pain and palliation specialists. “Our goal is to provide cancer care beyond cure to total rehabilitation”. says Dr Moni Abraham Kuriakose, Chief of Head & Neck Oncology, MSCC. He further commented that “with technological advances it is now possible to replace like-with-like so that the patients can expect a near-normal life after the cancer treatment”. As head and neck cancer at the early stage does not have any symptoms, over 80% of the patients presents with advanced stage, the research focus of the program is on early detection and prevention of cancer. Using saliva, scientists at NH has made a breakthrough in the field “We can identify ‘markers’ in saliva for the early detection of mouth cancer,” adds Dr Kuriakose. Similarly the group has validated the use of mouth-self-examination for early detection of cancers. The cornerstone of successful functioning of the Head & Neck cancer unit is the strong R&D programmes.