The Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Department of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has commemorated 2026 World Head and Neck Cancer Day with a week-long public awareness campaign focused on prevention, early detection, and treatment of head and neck cancers.

The campaign, held under the theme “Know It, Stop It: Early Detection Saves Lives,” educated patients, students, and the general public on risk factors, warning signs, and preventive measures associated with the disease.

Healthcare professionals educated participants on key risk factors, including tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. The public was also advised to seek early medical attention for symptoms such as persistent sore throat, mouth sores, neck lumps, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, and persistent ear pain.

As part of the campaign, the ENT team conducted outreach programmes at St. Mary’s Senior High School, and Mamprobi Senior High School, where students were sensitised on healthy lifestyles and the importance of early reporting of symptoms.

Speaking during the outreach, Dr. Evelyn Nyamekye, an ENT Specialist, emphasised that early diagnosis and timely treatment greatly improve survival outcomes. She cautioned students against behaviours such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and practices that increase the risk of HPV infection.Dr. Kofi Agyeman encouraged students to become advocates for healthy living.

For his part Dr. Agyenim Boateng a specialist urged them to avoid harmful habits, resist peer pressure, and seek medical attention promptly when they notice unusual symptoms.

The management of both schools expressed appreciation to the ENT Department and the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for the initiative.

The department reaffirmed its commitment to promoting preventive healthcare and increasing public awareness, emphasising that recognising early warning signs and seeking timely medical care remains critical in saving lives.