Henri Becquerel Cancer Centerin Rouen (Seine-Maritime) takes advantage of the European Ear, Nose and Throat Cancer Awareness Week to organize One day free screening consultation within its organization.
To understand these issues, France Bleu Normandie contacted the doctor Rice Obongo, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Cancer at the Henri Becquerel Centre. interview.
France Blue Normandy – When we talk about nose, ear, and throat cancers, what exactly are we talking about?
Ubongo Rice Ear, nose and throat cancers are cancers that affect the mucous membranes of the respiratory system, thus the mouth, throat, larynx and hypopharynx but also the sinuses and nasal cavity. Cancer is the proliferation of cells leading to mass and complications.
FBN – These are cancers that we talk about less but they still rank fifth among cancer cases in France and the former Haute-Normandy region is the second region with the highest number of cancer cases. How do we explain this situation?
or This is explained by the fact that the population most affected by these cancers is the population that is slightly less active, sometimes approaching retirement or already retired and often far from information. The ages of the most affected population range between 55 and 60 years on average. There is also less media coverage and campaigns that can reach this population.
FBN – Are there factors that can increase the risk of developing this type of cancer?
or The two main factors are alcohol consumption and smoking. But in recent years, there has been a third factor that has seen significant growth: HPV, the human papillomavirus. This virus can actually lead to the development of cancers in the back of the throat in young patients. Today, in the Paris region for example, more than 50% of oropharyngeal cancer cases are linked to the papilloma virus. A few years ago, this percentage represented only 5 to 10%. In Normandy, this percentage is still small but has been increasing over the years. Therefore, I take this opportunity to encourage parents to vaccinate their children against this papilloma virus.
FBN – The day on which you organize this Thursday falls during pre-registration. Who did you advise to register?
or We advise all people who have symptoms that have been present for more than three weeks, such as: sore throat, difficulty swallowing, voice problem, lump in the neck, pain in the tongue or with red or white spots. These symptoms, if they persist, may be a sign of cancer. It is therefore advisable to consult a doctor, whether your general practitioner or an ear, nose and throat specialist.
FBN – There is no widespread screening campaign for ear, nose and throat cancers?
or – No, screening campaigns have no real meaning for this type of cancer. Because many people may suffer from temporary symptoms such as a sore throat, for example. It would not be appropriate to examine everyone and, moreover, it will not be possible.
FBN Are there effective treatments against these cancers?
or – Yes, there are several tools that can be used: surgery, radiotherapy, which can be used alongside chemotherapy. We may have a good chance of recovery, but the sooner we recover, the greater the chances of recovery.
Center Henri Becquerel, 1 rue Damien in Rouen. To setup an appointment here.
