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‘One in a million’ salivary gland cancer took away her sense of taste
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Madam Jumidah, 66, lost much of her ability to taste because of recurrent salivary gland cancer.
ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO
DeeperDive is a beta AI feature. Refer to full articles for the facts.
- Salivary gland cancer is rare, affecting fewer than 1 in 100,000 in Singapore a year. Risk increases with age and radiation exposure.
- Treatment challenges include diverse cancer types, but early detection can improve outcomes.
- Advances in targeted drug therapies offer hope for resistant cancers.
AI generated
SINGAPORE – For over 10 years, Madam Jumidah has been undergoing treatment for a rare cancer of the salivary glands. She is now unable to taste flavours in food.
“At first bite, I get to know whether the dish is salty or not. After that, I can’t taste anything,” says the 66-year-old housewife, who asked to use only one name.
