Ahead of World Head & Neck Cancer Day, the Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India (HNCII) has launched its nationwide awareness campaign, “Delay is the Real Killer,” urging people to recognise cancer symptoms early and seek timely treatment.
Head and neck cancers account for nearly 30% of all cancers in India, with tobacco use responsible for most cases. Although these cancers are highly treatable when detected early, nearly 70% of patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to poorer outcomes, more complex treatment, and higher costs.
Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
The campaign encourages people to seek medical advice immediately if they experience symptoms such as a non-healing mouth ulcer, an unexplained lump, persistent difficulty in swallowing, or changes in voice. It also highlights the importance of starting treatment promptly after diagnosis.
The initiative was unveiled during a media workshop led by Dr. Sultan A. Pradhan, Founder and Chairman of HNCII. As per the press release, the campaign aims to change public behaviour by reinforcing that delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly affect survival.
Partnerships to Expand Awareness
HNCII has partnered with the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA), Indian Cancer Society (ICS), the dental fraternity, and other organisations to spread awareness through community outreach, educational programmes, digital campaigns, and timely referrals. Dr. Pradhan said dentists can play a vital role in detecting oral cancers during routine examinations, while NGOs can help take the message to the grassroots.
Through this initiative, HNCII aims to reduce the number of late-stage diagnoses and improve treatment outcomes. Marking World Head & Neck Cancer Day, the institute reiterated its message: “Cancer will not wait. Neither should you. In Cancer, Delay is the Real Killer.”