Head And Neck Cancer: AIIMS Bhubaneswar reports increase in head and neck cancer patients | Bhubaneswar News
Bhubaneswar: The All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar has seen a substantial surge in cancer patients, with over 10,000 seeking consultation at the ENT and radiotherapy OPD annually and among these, 3,500 to 4,000 patients undergo complex surgeries related to head and neck cancer every year.
In addition to this, around 1,200 patients received advanced radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments.The revelation was made during an awareness generation event organized by AIIMS on World Head and Neck Cancer Day on July 27, attended by doctors, staff and patients at the institute.
AIIMS Bhubaneswar’s executive director Ashutosh Biswas said that head and neck cancer, particularly those affecting the oral cavity, are most prevalent among the Indian population, with males being disproportionately affected.
Biswas attributed the rise in cancer cases to poor lifestyle, like excessive consumption of alcohol and smoking, among others. “Upon diagnosis, cancer can be effectively treated and potentially cured through a combination of surgical intervention, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Early initiation of treatment significantly improves patient’s survival outcome,” Biswas said.
Pradipta Kumar Parida, head of ENT department and head and neck surgery, strongly advised individuals with symptoms like restricted opening of mouth, persistent oral ulcers, loosening teeth and swelling of neck to seek prompt medical evaluation.
Dillip Kumar Samal, an associate professor of the department, said that AIIMS runs a head and neck cancer clinic every Monday. “The treatment is provided free of cost. We urge everyone to make use of the service,” he said.
As part of the awareness programme, free screening for oral, head and neck cancer was conducted at the institute.
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