Head & Neck Cancer
Comprehensive, function-preserving care for cancers of the oral cavity, throat, larynx, salivary glands, and sinuses — prioritising both cure and quality of life.
15+
Years Experience
15K+
Patients Treated
10+
Countries Served
Understanding Head & Neck Cancers
Head and neck cancers include cancers of the oral cavity (mouth, tongue, floor of mouth), oropharynx (tonsils, base of tongue), larynx (voice box), hypopharynx, nasopharynx, sinuses, and salivary glands. These cancers require careful treatment planning to preserve vital functions like speech, swallowing, and breathing. At Jain Oncology, our team brings world-class expertise to head and neck cancer surgery, often achieving excellent oncological outcomes while preserving function.
Diagnosis & Staging
Thorough clinical examination and advanced imaging are crucial for accurate staging and treatment planning in head and neck cancers
Clinical Examination
Comprehensive oral cavity exam, flexible nasopharyngoscopy, palpation of neck lymph nodes, and assessment of cranial nerve function.
Biopsy & HPV Testing
Incisional biopsy or FNAC of the primary tumour and neck nodes. HPV/p16 testing for oropharyngeal cancers, which has significant prognostic implications.
Cross-Sectional Imaging
Contrast-enhanced CT and MRI to assess tumour extent, bone invasion, and perineural spread. PET-CT for detecting distant metastases and unknown primary tumours.
Multidisciplinary Review
Every case is discussed in our tumour board with ENT surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and speech pathologists to plan the optimal treatment strategy.
Symptoms to Watch
Persistent sore throat, mouth ulcer, or white/red patches that don't heal within 2–3 weeks
Difficulty or pain when swallowing (dysphagia or odynophagia)
Painless lump or swelling in the neck that persists for more than 3 weeks
Voice changes, hoarseness, or difficulty speaking lasting more than 3 weeks
Unexplained ear pain (referred otalgia), especially on one side
Numbness or weakness in the face, loose teeth, or ill-fitting dentures
Risk Factors
Tobacco use — smoking, chewing tobacco, gutka, betel nut (paan) are the primary risk factors in India
Heavy alcohol consumption, especially combined with tobacco use
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection — particularly HPV-16 for oropharyngeal cancers
Poor oral hygiene, ill-fitting dentures, and chronic irritation
Occupational exposure to wood dust, nickel, or formaldehyde
EBV infection (associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma)
Treatment Approaches at Jain Oncology
Every treatment plan is tailored to your tumour biology, stage, and personal preferences.
Surgery
Removing the Tumour Safely
- Removal of the tumour with a safe margin of healthy tissue
- Jaw or bone removal only when directly affected by cancer
- Checking and removing affected lymph nodes in the neck
- Minimally invasive and robotic options for suitable cases
- Reconstructive surgery to restore appearance and function
💡 Our surgeons focus on removing cancer completely while preserving your ability to speak, swallow, and maintain appearance.
Radiation Therapy
Targeted Energy Treatment
- Advanced techniques that precisely target the tumour area
- Often combined with chemotherapy for locally advanced cancers
- Can cure early voice box cancer while preserving your voice
- Given after surgery when there's a higher risk of recurrence
- Internal radiation available for certain mouth cancers
💡 For early voice box cancer, radiation can cure the disease while keeping your natural voice — a life-changing benefit.
Chemotherapy
Medicines to Fight Cancer
- Often given alongside radiation to improve cure rates
- Can help preserve organs like the voice box by shrinking tumours first
- Alternative drug options for patients with kidney or hearing concerns
- Treatment schedule adjusted based on your fitness and tolerance
- Given before surgery for very advanced tumours to make surgery possible
💡 Combining chemotherapy with radiation significantly improves cure rates for locally advanced head and neck cancers.
Immunotherapy
Boosting Your Body's Defence
- Helps your immune system recognise and attack cancer cells
- Used for cancers that return or spread after initial treatment
- Can be combined with chemotherapy for better results
- Testing done to identify patients most likely to benefit
- Some patients achieve long-lasting responses
💡 Immunotherapy has greatly improved outcomes for head and neck cancers that return after initial treatment.
Targeted Therapy
Precision Medicines for Your Cancer
- Drugs that block specific proteins cancer cells need to grow
- An option for patients who cannot tolerate standard chemotherapy
- Can be combined with radiation or chemotherapy
- Used for cancers that return or have spread
- Research ongoing for newer targeted medicines
💡 Targeted therapy provides a valuable alternative for patients who cannot tolerate standard chemotherapy drugs.
Rehabilitation
Restoring Your Daily Functions
- Speech therapy to rebuild communication skills
- Swallowing exercises and techniques to improve eating
- Dental solutions after jaw surgery
- Nutritional support including feeding tube management
- Emotional support for body image and social confidence
💡 Our rehabilitation team starts working with you before treatment begins, ensuring the earliest possible recovery of speech and swallowing.
Coping & Support at Jain Oncology
Head and neck cancers impact essential daily functions. We provide specialised support to help you maintain the best possible quality of life during and after treatment.
Speech & Swallowing Support
Our speech pathologists work with you before, during, and after treatment to preserve and restore your ability to speak and eat. We provide exercises, adaptive techniques, and assistive devices as needed.
Tobacco Cessation & Lifestyle
Quitting tobacco is critical for treatment success and preventing recurrence. We offer counselling, nicotine replacement therapy, and ongoing support to help you quit permanently.
Follow-Up & Surveillance
Regular clinical exams, imaging, and thyroid function monitoring (after neck radiation) ensure early detection of any recurrence. We also screen for secondary cancers in the aerodigestive tract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Take the First Step Toward Your Recovery
Schedule a consultation with our expert team to create your personalised head & neck cancer treatment plan.