Head and neck cancer often begins with subtle symptoms that are easy to ignore, such as a persistent mouth ulcer, sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or a painless lump in the neck. Recognising these early warning signs and seeking timely medical evaluation can make a significant difference in treatment success. In this blog, a surgical oncologist explains the first signs of head and neck cancer, common risk factors, when to consult a specialist, and why early diagnosis is essential for better outcomes and improved quality of life.