Professor James Paul O'Neill, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology, RCSI, in conjunction with the International Federation of Head Neck Oncologic Societies (IFHNOS) organised a series of events to coincide with ‘World Head and Neck Cancer Day', which took place on Monday, 27 July 2015.

RCSI hosted a Head and Neck Symposium which aimed to raise awareness of head and neck cancer as well as highlighting its risks and promoting early detection and prevention of such cancers. A number of leading medical and surgical consultant oncologists contributed to the lecture, as well as a head and neck cancer survivor who gave the patient perspective. The symposium was opened by Mr Declan J. Magee, RCSI President.

Earlier in the day, a free screening clinic was held at Beaumont Hospital, one of six hospitals in Ireland running similar events that aim to raise awareness of head and neck cancer. The screening clinic was held at the Beaumont Hospital's ENT (Ear Nose and Throat) outpatients department.

In Ireland there are more than 600 new cases of head and neck cancer reported each year. Ireland joined the international movement of 53 countries who observed World Head and Neck Caner Day to increase awareness, and promote education and training in the diagnosis, treatment, outcomes, and research of head and neck cancer.