Head and neck cancer: How modern technology is detecting and treating it

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Modern medicine has brought people out of this idea that cancer means the end of life. Although the prevalence of head and neck cancer is alarming especially in the geographical and dietary background of our country, it is currently completely curable with timely detection and modern technology. All the world-class technologies are now added to the medical system of Bangladesh, which gives the patients a new life guarantee in keeping with the developed world.

Last Monday, SKF Oncology organized the 65th episode of the special online discussion titled ‘World-class cancer treatment now in Bangladesh’, TMSS Cancer Center, Bogra Medical and Radiation Oncologist Dr. Md. Tauchifur Rahman. Nasiha Tahsin moderated the program organized on the occasion of World Cancer Day and Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month. The program was broadcasted live on the Facebook page of Prothom Alo and SKF Oncology.

In medical science, head-neck cancer or head and neck cancer usually refers to cancer of the oral cavity, larynx, tongue, salivary glands and the back of the nose. Dr. Md. Tauchifur Rahman said oral cavity or mouth cancer is most common in Bangladesh. He attributes this to the long-standing habit of the people of our country of consuming tobacco and tobacco products such as jorda, lime and betel nut. In addition, smoking, drinking alcohol and human papilloma virus (HPV) infection also increase this risk. Even in the modern lifestyle of consuming hot food in plastic containers or due to food adulteration, this disease can attack at any age.

In the case of head and neck cancer, the body gives very specific signals, which the common man often ignores. Dr. According to Tauchifur Rahman, a chronic sore in the mouth that does not heal easily, feeling a lump or tumor in the throat, a sudden change in voice or a prolonged cough and difficulty swallowing—these can be early signs of cancer. It is important to remember that the cure rate is almost 100% if the disease is diagnosed in the first or second stage. So it is important to consult a specialist without delaying the diagnosis.

The head and neck area contains very important ‘functional organs’ such as speaking, tasting or breathing. Dr. Tauchifur Rahman emphasized that radiation therapy is more effective than surgery in many cases. Because, it is possible to eliminate cancer without organ damage. Radiation is now one of the main treatment methods for organ preservation or protection, especially in larynx or tongue cancer. Radiation therapy is the mainstay of treatment for almost all cancers in this region, except for the oral cavity.

The role of radiation therapy in the treatment of head and neck cancer is immense. Since this region contains sensitive organs such as speech, breathing and eating, radiation is now the main hope for non-invasive treatment. Dr. Tauchifur Rahman said, 20 years ago, where today’s radiation was given only by looking at ordinary X-ray film, now there are modern technologies like 3D-CRT, IMRT and arc therapy.

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In particular, IMRT technology can now target cancer cells much more precisely. A more modern addition is ‘Tomotherapy’, which is currently available in only one center in Bangladesh. It is an AI-guided procedure that is able to destroy cancer cells very quickly and accurately while sparing healthy cells. This technology has made it possible to reduce the side effects of treatment.

Post-radiation, many patients may have difficulty opening their mouths or swallowing food. Dr. Tauchifur Rahman advises regular ‘mouth opening exercise’ and habit of slowly eating solid food from liquid. Apart from this, he talks about the use of lemon or vitamin C-like lozenges to prevent the problem of dry mouth. It is important to maintain body weight and strength by using ‘NG tube’ if necessary to ensure nutrition during therapy.

During the course of radiation, there may be some temporary problems such as mouth sores or dryness, which can be overcome with conscious care. Dr. Tauchifur Rahman recommends the use of feeding tubes before starting therapy to ensure adequate nutrition for patients. He emphasizes that mental strength is the patient’s main tool in beating cancer. The first two years after treatment are very important. Because, at this time, the risk of the disease returning is the highest. So it is important to keep in touch with the doctor through regular follow-up every one to two months.

People concerned say that the decentralization policy of the government and the addition of modern technology at the private level have taken cancer treatment in Bangladesh to a new height. Right awareness and right use of time can play a key role in building a cancer free Bangladesh.