Head and Neck Cancer
Innovative Treatment Options in Cuba

You feel a slight discomfort in your neck or throat, but you don’t mind, do you? Maybe your voice is a little hoarse, or maybe you have a slight difficulty swallowing. In fact, these can be early signs of head and neck cancer. Worldwide, 650,000 people a year are diagnosed with head and neck cancer, and unfortunately most of them are detected at a late stage. The five-year survival rate is around 60% on average, but this rate is much higher when diagnosed early. Therefore, it is useful to know this disease well!

What is Neck Cancer?

Neck cancers are malignant tumors arising from epithelial tissues in the head and neck region and are usually referred to as squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). These cancers occur especially in the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, oral cavity, pharynx (throat) and larynx (larynx). The disease is most common in men over the age of 60, but it is also increasing in younger people.

What Causes Neck Cancer?

Tobacco and alcohol use are the primary causes. Smoking increases the risk by 10 to 20 times, and alcohol sensitizes oral tissues, allowing carcinogens in tobacco to cause more harm. However, these are not the only causes. In recent years, HPV infections have been found to play a significant role, especially in tonsil and base of tongue cancers. HPV-related head and neck cancers are increasingly seen in young individuals who do not smoke or drink. High-risk HPV types can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. Other contributing factors include genetic predisposition, occupational exposure, poor oral hygiene, and chronic infections.

Where is Head and Neck Cancer Found?

Of course, the head and neck covers a very large area. If we ask in which areas this cancer occurs specifically, the answers are; oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, salivary glands and lymph nodes.

What are the Symptoms of Throat and Neck Cancer?

This cancer, which can be called insidious, starts with vague and mild symptoms in the early stages. The most common symptoms include hoarseness, foreign body sensation in the throat, difficulty swallowing, ear pain and swelling in the neck. In advanced stages, breathing difficulties, bloody sputum, permanent mouth sores and weight loss occur. Neck cancer symptoms are usually manifested by swelling of the lymph nodes. A painless, hard and growing swelling is one of the most important signs. As the cancer progresses, swallowing difficulties, pain in the neck and discomfort in the ears appear.Some patients experience mouth sores that do not heal for a long time or tooth loss. It can sometimes be confused with throat cancer, but there are certain differences. Throat cancer is characterized by symptoms such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and chronic coughing. Neck cancer, on the other hand, usually starts with a painless swelling in the lymph nodes and ear pain. However, both types show similar symptoms as they progress, especially in terms of pain and swallowing difficulties. At what stage are the symptoms of head and neck cancer recognized? Head and neck cancers are mostly diagnosed at advanced stages. The main reason for this is that the symptoms are mild in the early stages and are ignored by patients. In stages I and II, symptoms such as mild voice changes and a feeling of being stuck in the throat are seen. However, in stages III and IV, breathing difficulties, severe pain, severe weight loss and paralysis of facial nerves occur. So it is vital to consult a doctor if in doubt!

We are at your side with the expertise of QBA Medi Tours to access Cuba’s advanced head and neck cancer treatment methods and plan the process completely. Contact us now to take the right step for your health!

Is a Lump in the Neck Always a Sign of Cancer?

In most cases, neck lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and result from infections, inflammations, or thyroid gland conditions.

How to Distinguish Benign Neck Lumps?

Here are some key features that help differentiate benign from malignant neck masses:

• Movable and soft lumps are generally benign, especially in lymph node inflammations.
• Painful lumps are often caused by infections or inflammation, while cancerous lumps are usually painless.
• Rapidly growing, hard, and irregularly bordered lumps may be malignant and should be evaluated carefully.
• Lymph node swellings due to infection may reduce with antibiotics, but those that remain unchanged or continue to grow over time must be assessed.

We are here with QBA Medi Tours to help you access advanced head and neck cancer treatment options in Cuba and plan your journey seamlessly. Take the right step for your health and contact us today.

We are at your side with the expertise of QBA Medi Tours to access Cuba’s advanced head and neck cancer treatment methods and plan the process completely. Contact us now to take the right step for your health!

Head and Neck Cancer Treatment in Cuba

Cuba attracts global attention with its innovative methods in cancer treatment. In the treatment of head and neck cancer, immunotherapeutic cancer vaccines and bio-technological supportive therapies stand out.

Treatment Methods Used in Cuba

Nimotuzumab (CIMAher): A monoclonal antibody treatment developed in Cuba. Scientific studies have shown that it is effective in head, neck and some other types of cancer. It slows the growth of tumor cells by targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).
Other immunotherapy methods: Cuba has pioneering work in immunotherapeutic treatments that mobilize the immune system against cancer cells.
Complementary treatment approaches: Cancer treatments in Cuba are often supported by individualized treatment protocols. This can be planned in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and alternative immunotherapy options.

Who Can Benefit from Head and Neck Cancer Treatment in Cuba?

The methods offered by Cuba in the treatment of head and neck cancer can be a supportive and complementary option, especially for advanced patients or patients who do not respond to standard treatments. However, the suitability of treatment for each patient is evaluated by specialist doctors affiliated to the Cuban Ministry of Health.

How Does the Treatment Process Work in Cuba?

QBA Medi Tours facilitates access to head and neck cancer treatment in Cuba by organizing every step of the process for patients:

• Evaluation of the patient’s medical file and submission to the Cuban Ministry of Health
• Receiving approval from hospitals in Cuba regarding treatment eligibility (results within 7–10 business days)
• Organizing all logistics such as flight tickets, accommodation, translation, and transportation
• Providing companion support and coordination throughout the treatment process

For more information on Cuba’s innovative head and neck cancer treatments and to start your treatment journey, contact QBA Medi Tours today.