Why Are Head, Neck, and Thyroid Cancers Rising Alarmingly Among Young Indians?

Head

and neck cancers affect areas like your mouth, throat, voice box, nose, and sinuses. In India, these cancers have traditionally been seen in older adults; however, recent trends show a concerning rise among young people. According to the national cancer data platforms, head and neck cancers account for a significant share of cancer cases in India, with increasing diagnoses in people under 40 years of age. “This shift has drawn attention to changing lifestyle patterns, early exposure to risk factors, and growing environmental influences,” Dr Surender Kumar Dabas, Chairman - Manipal Comprehensive Cancer Centre and Onco Robotic Surgeries, Northwest Cluster, told Times Now in an exclusive interview.

Why are head, neck, and thyroid cancers rising?

According to Dr Dabas, India carries one of the highest burdens of head and neck cancers globally. “Earlier, age-related exposure was considered the main contributor, but younger populations are now being affected at alarming rates. Early initiation of harmful habits and longer duration of exposure are key reasons behind this rise. Increased urbanisation, stress-driven routines, and easy access to addictive substances have further intensified the problem among younger age groups,” he said. There are various lifestyle and behavioural factors that are closely linked to the increasing incidence of these cancers among younger people, which include:

Use of tobacco and smokeless products

Products like cigarettes, bidis, gutka, khaini, supari, betel nut, and pan masala contain carcinogenic substances that directly damage the lining of the mouth and throat.

Alcohol consumption at a young age

Alcohol increases cell damage and, when combined with tobacco use, significantly raises cancer risk.

Viral infections linked to sexual behaviour

Human papillomavirus (HPV), transmitted through oral sexual contact, has been increasingly associated with cancers of the throat and tonsils, especially among younger individuals without traditional risk factors.

Poor oral hygiene

Long-standing dental infections and untreated oral conditions can create an environment that promotes abnormal cell growth.

Early warning signs not to be ignored

Early symptoms of head and neck cancers are often mistaken for minor infections, which are:

• Persistent mouth ulcers
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained hoarseness
• Swelling in the neck
• White or red patches inside the mouth

Awareness of these signs is crucial, as early-stage detection improves treatment outcomes and reduces long-term complications.Also read: Epstein Files and Mental Health: How Graphic and Disturbing Disclosures Are Fuelling Anxiety

What are the diagnosis and treatment options?

Diagnosis begins with a detailed clinical examination of the oral cavity, throat, and neck, followed by imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or PET-CT to assess the extent of disease. A biopsy is essential to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the cancer’s site, stage, and the patient’s overall health. “Early-stage cancers can often be treated successfully with surgery or radiation. In recent years, minimally invasive techniques such as robotic-assisted surgery have transformed the management of selected head and neck cancers, particularly tumours of the throat and base of tongue,” said Dr Dabas. Robotic surgery allows precise tumour removal through the mouth, reduces scarring, shortens hospital stay, and enables faster recovery with better functional outcomes.