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Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in various areas of the head and neck region, including the mouth, throat (pharynx), nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, salivary glands, and voice box (larynx). Most of these cancers begin in the thin, flat squamous cells that line the moist surfaces of the head and neck, and they are collectively called Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas (HNSCC).
Early detection and treatment play a crucial role in preserving vital functions such as speech, swallowing, and facial movement. When caught in its early stages, this cancer is often highly treatable.
Head and neck cancers are classified based on where they begin:
Oral Cancer: Affects the lips, gums, tongue, inner lining of the cheeks, roof and floor of the mouth, and areas behind the wisdom teeth.
Salivary Gland Cancer: Begins in glands that produce saliva.
Nasal Cavity & Paranasal Sinus Cancer: Develops inside the nasal cavity or in the hollow spaces in bones surrounding the nose.
Nasopharyngeal Cancer: Occurs in the upper section of the throat, behind the nose.
Oropharyngeal Cancer: Involves the middle part of the throat, including the tonsils and base of the tongue.
Hypopharyngeal Cancer: Affects the lower part of the throat, near the esophagus.
Laryngeal Cancer: Originates in the voice box, which houses the vocal cords.
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing head and neck cancers:
Smoking, secondhand smoke, and chewing tobacco significantly raise cancer risk, especially in the mouth, voice box, and hypopharynx. The combined use of alcohol and tobacco multiplies this risk.
Persistent infection with HPV, particularly HPV-16, is a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers involving the tonsils or tongue base.
Chewing betel quid (paan), common in parts of Asia, increases the risk of mouth cancer.
Exposure to wood dust, nickel, formaldehyde, asbestos, and certain industrial chemicals can lead to nasal cavity, sinus, and laryngeal cancers.
Previous radiation treatments to the head and neck increase the risk of developing salivary gland cancer later in life.
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been linked to nasopharyngeal and salivary gland cancers.
People of Asian descent, particularly Chinese ancestry, have a higher risk of nasopharyngeal cancer. Rare genetic conditions such as Fanconi anemia also increase early-onset cancer risk.
The symptoms of head and neck cancer vary depending on the location of the tumor. Seek medical advice if you experience:
Persistent mouth ulcers lasting over 3 weeks
White or red patches inside the mouth
A lump in the neck, lip, or inside the mouth
Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Ear pain, nasal obstruction, or frequent nosebleeds
Swelling in the jaw or face
While not all cases are preventable, several steps can significantly reduce risk:
Quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Get vaccinated against HPV; vaccines like Gardasil 9 help prevent HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers.
Practice safe sex to lower HPV transmission risk.
Use protective equipment if working in industries involving dust, chemicals, or fumes.
Maintain regular dental checkups, as dentists often detect early signs of oral cancer.
Eat a nutrient-rich diet with fruits and vegetables to strengthen immunity.
If symptoms persist, a healthcare provider may conduct:
A physical exam to check for abnormal growths.
Biopsy to examine tissue samples for cancer cells.
Imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET scans) to determine cancer spread.
Endoscopy to view internal areas of the throat or nasal cavity.
Treatment depends on cancer type, size, stage, and overall health. Common approaches include:
Surgery to remove tumors.
Radiation Therapy to target cancer cells.
Chemotherapy for advanced or widespread cancers.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy for HPV-related or resistant cancers.
Rehabilitation is often part of treatment, helping patients regain speech, swallowing, and facial functions.
Recovering from head and neck cancer is a journey that requires emotional and physical support. Support groups, therapy, and nutritional guidance can help patients and families adjust to life after treatment.