Head & Neck Cancer include the cancers of oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, hypopharynx, thyroid gland, salivary gland, nose & paranasal sinuses, nasopharynx, temporal bone, other varities of neck swellings arising from nerves, blood vessels etc. In India the cancers of lip & oral cavity are the most common among males and is the 4th common among females. Majority of the Head & Neck Cancer are caused due to consumption of tobacco and alcohol.

The Head & Neck Surgical Oncology Unit was started at KLES Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital & MRC, Belagavi in 2006 by Dr. Rajendra B. Metgudmath who has been trained from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. The unit handles all kinds of cancers arising in the Head & Neck region. The unit is supported by well experienced consultants from departments of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Cardiovascular & Neurosurgery. Post surgery adjuvant treatment is provided by Consultants from departments of Medical and Radiation Oncology. Screening camps to detect the disease in early stages & awareness programs regarding head & neck cancers & its prevention are conducted regularly.