By: Jennifer Nerkie Kenney
The Head of the ENT Unit at the Institutional Care Division of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Eunice Rabiatu Abdulai, has warned that the combined use of alcohol and tobacco significantly increases the risk of developing throat cancer. She made this known during a discussion on the GTV Breakfast Show’s BFS Clinic segment on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
The conversation focused on risk factors, prevention and treatment options for throat cancer, and also featured survivor Mary Amankwa Fordwor, whose experience highlighted the need for early diagnosis and proper follow-up.
“Alcohol is a risk factor for head and neck cancers, including throat cancer, and when combined with tobacco, the risk becomes even higher,” Dr. Abdulai stated.
Dr. Abdulai explained that not all throat conditions are cancerous, noting that some begin as benign growths which may later develop into more serious conditions if left untreated. She said these non-cancerous lesions are common among people who frequently use their voice, including teachers, singers and pastors.
According to her, such conditions can often be managed with speech therapy, but persistent cases may require surgical intervention to prevent further complications.
“When it is not cancer, we call it benign, and some of these can be treated with speech therapy, but if it does not resolve, we may have to remove it,” she explained.
She further highlighted the role of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in throat-related conditions, explaining that the virus is linked to both benign and cancerous growths. She noted that while HPV can be transmitted from mother to child during birth, cases among adults are increasing due to oral sex.
She stressed the importance of vaccination as a preventive measure, particularly for young girls, and expressed hope that vaccination programmes would eventually include boys.
“We are encouraging parents to vaccinate their daughters against HPV, and we hope it will be extended to boys because it helps reduce these conditions,” she said.
On treatment and recovery, Dr. Abdulai said advances in medical care have made it possible for patients to manage the condition and maintain communication through speech therapy, speech valves and assistive devices. She added that emotional resilience is also key to recovery.
She, however, pointed out that access to specialised care remains a challenge due to the limited number of head and neck surgeons in the country, resulting in long waiting lists for surgeries.
“Many patients struggle not just with the illness but also the emotional burden, and we have only a few specialists handling a large number of cases,” she noted.
Dr. Abdulai advised the public to seek early medical attention when they notice unusual symptoms in the throat or mouth, stressing that early detection improves outcomes. She added that while lifestyle factors account for many cases, some may also be linked to genetics or diet.
“If you notice anything unusual, report early because early detection can make all the difference,” she advised.
Ms. Fordwor, on her part, dismissed public misconceptions about her condition, clarifying that it was not caused by any external injury as widely speculated.
She urged the public to rely on accurate medical information and prioritise their health by seeking timely care.
“My condition had nothing to do with the rumours. People should take their health seriously and go for early checks,” she said.
