New Delhi, July 28, 2026: Marking World Head & Neck Cancer Day, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh organised a comprehensive Head and Neck Cancer Patient Support Group Meet, bringing together 100+ patients, cancer survivors, caregivers and healthcare experts to spread awareness about the prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of head and neck cancer. The event served as a powerful reminder that while head and neck cancers are among the most preventable cancers, they can affect anyone, making awareness and timely medical attention critical.

India’s Rising Head and Neck Cancer Burden

Head and neck cancer continues to pose a major public health challenge across the world. Over 9 lakh new cases are diagnosed globally every year, with India contributing almost one-third of the world’s burden, accounting for nearly 2.8 lakh new head and neck cancer cases annually. While tobacco use and alcohol consumption remain the leading risk factors, experts at the event emphasised that head and neck cancer is not limited to smokers or people who chew tobacco.

Beyond Tobacco: Lesser-Known Risk Factors and Warning Signs

Poor oral hygiene, persistent irritation caused by sharp or broken teeth, repeated injury to the inner cheek due to cheek biting, ill-fitting dentures, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, prolonged sun exposure (especially for lip cancers), unhealthy dietary habits and weakened immunity can also increase the risk of head and neck cancer. Every individual should remain vigilant and seek medical evaluation if any of the following symptoms persist for more than two weeks:

• A mouth ulcer that does not heal
• Persistent change of voice or hoarseness
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Unexplained bleeding from the mouth
• White or red patches inside the mouth
• A lump in the neck

Early Detection Can Push Cure Rates Above 80–90%

Experts highlighted that a significant proportion of head and neck cancers are preventable and, when diagnosed in the early stages, cure rates can exceed 80–90%, depending on the site and stage of the disease. Unfortunately, delayed diagnosis continues to be one of the biggest challenges in India, often resulting in more extensive treatment and greater impact on speech, swallowing, appearance and quality of life. The patient support group meet featured informative sessions by specialists from Radiation Oncology, Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology and Dental Sciences, who spoke about risk factors, early warning signs, advances in treatment and the importance of multidisciplinary cancer care.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Vineeta Goel, Senior Director & HOD – Radiation Oncology, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, said, “One of the biggest misconceptions is that only smokers or people who chew tobacco develop head and neck cancer. While tobacco and alcohol are major risk factors, they are not the only causes. Poor oral hygiene, persistent irritation from sharp teeth or ill-fitting dentures, repeated cheek biting, HPV infection and several other factors can also contribute. That is why every individual should be aware of the warning signs and never ignore symptoms that persist for more than two weeks. Early diagnosis not only improves the chances of cure but also helps preserve vital functions such as speech, swallowing and appearance.”

She further added, “The good news is that many head and neck cancers are preventable and, when detected early, are highly curable. However, many patients in India still reach hospitals at advanced stages because of delayed diagnosis. Treatment is only one part of the journey. Patients often face challenges related to eating, speaking, oral care, emotional well-being and returning to their normal lives. A multidisciplinary approach involving oncologists, surgeons, dentists, nutritionists, speech therapists, psychologists and rehabilitation experts is essential for holistic recovery.”

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Recovery and Rehabilitation

Mr Naveen Sharma, Vice President and Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, said, “The fight against head and neck cancer begins with awareness. Despite being one of the most preventable cancers, many people continue to ignore its early warning signs, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Through this patient support group meet, we wanted to create a platform where patients and caregivers could not only gain the right information but also draw inspiration from those who have successfully overcome the disease. Seeing survivors share their journeys reinforces the message that timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment and a positive mindset can make a significant difference. At Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, we remain committed to promoting cancer awareness, encouraging early screening and supporting patients at every stage of their journey, from diagnosis to recovery and beyond.”

Building a Community of Support for Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session where participants and caregivers openly discussed their concerns with specialists, reinforcing the importance of continuous follow-up, rehabilitation and community support in improving long-term outcomes and quality of life for head and neck cancer survivors.

ABOUT FORTIS HEALTHCARE

Fortis Healthcare Limited is a leading integrated healthcare delivery service provider in India. The healthcare verticals of the company primarily comprise hospitals, diagnostics, and day care specialty facilities. Currently, the company operates 36 healthcare facilities (including JVs and O&M facilities) across 12 states and union territories. The Company’s network comprises over 6,000 operational beds (including O&M beds) and 400 diagnostics labs.

ABOUT IHH HEALTHCARE (“IHH”)

IHH is a leading multinational healthcare provider shaping the future of care. Driven by our aspiration to Care. For Good., we unite medical excellence and innovation, pushing boundaries through our trusted brands such as Acibadem, Gleneagles, Fortis, Island, Mount Elizabeth, Pantai, Parkway and Prince Court. Across 10 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Türkiye, India and Greater China, our 70,000-strong team delivers world-class excellence every day, within and beyond our 140 healthcare facilities, including more than 80 hospitals. Our comprehensive services span the full healthcare continuum, from primary and ambulatory to quaternary care, complemented by diagnostics, imaging, rehabilitation, telehealth and home care.

In partnership with our stakeholders, IHH is advancing value-based care, building a sustainable healthcare ecosystem and creating meaningful impact, as we work towards our vision to become the world’s most trusted healthcare services network.