HEAD AND NECK, AND ESOPHAGEAL CANCERS IN SAUDI-ARABIA

Cancer in Saudi Arabia is on the increase. This statement includes head, neck and oesophageal cancers which rank 3rd to 8th in frequency according to different studies. The Saudi literature consists of retrospective hospital-based studies and therefore does not present a clear and reliable picture. There is a need for a national tumour registry in order to formulate definitive preventive and therapeutic measures. King Faisal University in the Eastern Province has already instituted a regional tumour registry. Their results are awaited. With the increase in cancer cases there is a need to increase the treatment facilities. Public awareness and health education can contribute towards prevention, early detection and better follow-up results. This article reviews the available literature and emphasizes the points mentioned above.