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At the biggest World Head and Neck Cancer meeting in history in New York in July 2014, the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncological Societies established the World Head and Neck Cancer Day.

The team from Head And Neck Surgery London were at the meeting, and Alastair presented his research into the mechanisms of invasion of mouth cancers.

Michael Douglas gave a keynote lecture describing his personal experiences of mouth cancer.

Michael described how he had developed a painful ulcer in his mouth and had sought advice from multiple doctors who had unfortunately failed to recognise the problem, before eventually being seen by a head and neck specialist, several months later.

Sadly this is an all too common story – even for a Hollywood superstar who was able to see the very best doctors in New York. This highlights the need for us to raise awareness of mouth cancers and encourage early diagnosis and referral to appropriate specialists.

With this aim, the World Head and Neck Cancer Day – July 27th was established and launched.