Pattern of Occurrence of Primary Head and Neck Cancers in Jammu City- A Hospital Based Study

ABSTRACT

Background: Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are a major form of cancers in India. The spectrum varies from place to place within the country because of significant diversified risk factors. Unfortunately, despite an increase in medical knowledge, survival rates of head and neck cancers have not been observed to improve greatly. This is true, especially in tumors located in obscure primary sites or late presentation. Methods: This is a retrospective study on patients with histologically confirmed diagnosis of head and neck cancer between May 2016 and July 2018 at department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, SMGS Hospital, Jammu. The histopathological diagnoses were analysed with respect to age, gender, addiction habits, site of tumor and statistical analysis was done. Results: A total of 425 cases were analysed. There were 399 males and 26 females with M F ratio of 151. More than 97% patients were Squamous cell carcinoma. Maximum incidence (>60%) was in 40-60 years age group. Difference in incidence in males and females was significant in each age group (p<0.05). In patients of age <40 years oral cancers were common whereas in >40 years cancers of oropharynx and larynx were common. Tobacco smoking was a most prevalent risk factor for carcinoma oropharynx, larynx, and hypopharynx. Tobacco chewing was a most prevalent risk factor in females, young males, and carcinoma buccal mucosa patients. Alcohol consumption alone was observed in <1% patient as a risk factor. In oral tongue cancer, smoking and tobacco chewing were equally prevalent. Habit of tobacco chewing and alcohol were significantly higher in carcinoma buccal mucosa than other HNC suggesting synergistic effect specific to this site. Conclusion: Increased populace awareness programs emphasizing the preventable factors associated with this cancer and change in life style will decrease morbidity and mortality associated with late stage presentation.