Medical practitioners at the Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Unit of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital are raising alarms over a troubling increase in head and neck cancer cases among young people in Ghana. In response, the ENT Department has introduced a sensitization program aimed at increasing awareness about these cancers.
Dr. Kenneth Baidoo, Head of the ENT Department and New Allied Surgery at Korle Bu, attributes this alarming trend primarily to smoking, alcohol consumption, and other risky behaviors. “We are concerned because head and neck cancers are the most common causes of death in our department. Smoking, alcohol ingestion, and inappropriate sexual practices are significant risk factors,” he explained.
Dr. Baidoo emphasized that tobacco remains a major cause of these cancers. He pointed out that although some might consider alternatives like chewing tobacco, snuffing, or vaping as safer, they ultimately pose similar risks.
Dr. Oum Kalsoum Zakaria Adams, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Resident at Korle Bu, highlighted the connection between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and oral cancers, noting that changes in sexual practices, such as increased oral sex, contribute to this risk. “To reduce your risk, use condoms and maintain fidelity with one sexual partner,” she advised.
Dr. Kofi Agyemang addressed the challenges of treating head and neck cancers, including the high costs of treatment, which are not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme. This financial barrier often results in delayed treatment, leading to more advanced and aggressive cancer stages. He also stressed the need for more resources, including additional surgeons, radiotherapy centers, and chemotherapy options, as well as greater public education on early detection and treatment.
The awareness program by Korle Bu Teaching Hospital aims to educate the public on prevention, early signs, and the importance of seeking timely medical care to combat the rising incidence of these cancers.