Tobacco-related cancers
Most common in India. Linked to gutka, paan, khaini, smoking, and alcohol. Often preceded by white or red patches in the mouth.
Head & Neck Cancer Treatment in Hyderabad
India has one of the highest rates of oral cancer globally — driven mostly by tobacco and gutka. HPV-related throat cancers are also rising. Dr. Madhav Danthala provides treatment planning, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy for head and neck cancers at Omega Hospitals, Gachibowli, and Peoples Polyclinic, Manikonda.
What is Head & Neck Cancer?
Cancers of the mouth, tongue, throat, larynx, and salivary glands. Most are squamous cell carcinomas. Cause and biology shape treatment.
HPV-related oropharyngeal
Tonsil and base-of-tongue cancers driven by HPV infection. Often respond better to treatment than tobacco-related cancers.
Other rare types
Salivary gland tumours, nasopharyngeal cancer, and uncommon variants — each with distinct biology and treatment.
When to See a Doctor
Most mouth ulcers heal in two weeks. The pattern that matters is anything that does not.
Non-healing mouth ulcer
Any sore inside the mouth lasting more than three weeks, especially if painless.
Persistent hoarseness
Voice change lasting more than three weeks should be evaluated by an ENT.
Painless neck lump
A lump in the neck that does not resolve, especially if firm or growing.
White or red patches in mouth
Pre-cancerous changes (leukoplakia, erythroplakia) — particularly important in tobacco users.
Dr. Danthala's Approach
Head and neck cancer treatment requires multidisciplinary coordination.
HPV status first
Every oropharyngeal cancer is tested for HPV at diagnosis — it changes prognosis and may guide de-escalated treatment.
Multidisciplinary planning
Care is coordinated across head-and-neck surgery, radiation oncology, and medical oncology — with shared decision-making at every step.
Clear, structured communication
Every consult ends with a written summary of the plan, including expected impact on speech, swallowing, and quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the warning signs of oral cancer?
Any non-healing mouth ulcer or sore that persists more than three weeks. White or red patches inside the mouth, painless neck lump, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained ear pain on one side are also warning signs.
Does gutka cause oral cancer?
Yes. Gutka, paan, khaini, and other smokeless tobacco products are major causes of oral cancer in India. They cause oral submucous fibrosis that progresses to cancer over years. Stopping use significantly reduces risk.
What is HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer?
Some throat cancers — particularly tonsils and base of tongue — are caused by HPV infection. HPV-positive cancers behave differently from tobacco-related, often respond better to treatment, and may benefit from de-escalated protocols.
Should children get the HPV vaccine?
Yes. Given between ages 9 and 14 (catch-up to 26), the HPV vaccine prevents the strains most strongly linked to cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. One of the most effective cancer-prevention tools available.
What does treatment involve?
Early-stage: surgery or radiation alone. Locally advanced: combined chemoradiation. Recurrent or metastatic: immunotherapy (pembrolizumab, nivolumab) and targeted therapy (cetuximab) plus chemotherapy.
Consult Dr. Madhav Danthala
For first opinion, second opinion, or treatment planning: