Background of the FHNO

Background of the FHNO

The Foundation for Head and Neck Oncology (FHNO) is a multispecialty national society for propagation of best management practices in head and neck cancers in India. Membership is drawn from the entire gamut of medical specialties involved with head and neck cancers including but not limited to Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Radiation Oncology, Medical Oncology, Reconstructive Surgery, Basic Scientists, Speech/Swallowing therapy and other allied specialties.

Head and neck cancers as a group are among the most prevalent cancers in India and the Indian subcontinent. The FHNO was conceived in 2001 with the teaming together of a national group of clinical and research scientists, who felt the necessity of an active body to oversee the standards of care, education and research for this significant health problem of the country. The three main thrusts of activity for the Foundation have been towards establishing uniform and internationally accepted standards of care in head and neck cancers in the country; promote research programs in basic sciences as well as clinical areas and initiate educational activities like structured oncology training programs and fellowships in head and neck oncology.