HEAD AND NECK, AND ESOPHAGEAL CANCERS IN SAUDI-ARABIA

Cancer in Saudi Arabia is on the increase. This statement includes hea d, neck and oesophageal cancers which rank 3rd to 8th in frequency acc ording to different studies. The Saudi literature consists of retrospe ctive hospital-based studies and therefore does not present a clear an d reliable picture. There is a need for a national tumour registry in order to formulate definitive preventive and therapeutic measures. Kin g Faisal University in the Eastern Province has already instituted a r egional 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 preventio n, early detection and better follow-up results. This article reviews the available literature and emphasizes the points mentioned above.