Head and Neck Cancer
What is Head and Neck Cancer?
Head and neck cancer refers to cancers that develop in the mouth, throat, voice box (larynx), nose, sinuses, or salivary glands. Most of these cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, meaning they start in the lining of these areas.
Common Types
Oral Cancer – Lips, tongue, gums, inner cheek
Throat (Pharyngeal) Cancer – Nasopharynx, Oropharynx, Hypopharynx
Laryngeal Cancer – Voice box
Nasal & Sinus Cancer
Salivary Gland Cancer
Main Causes & Risk Factors
🚬 Tobacco use (smoking, chewing tobacco, gutka, paan) – Most common cause
🍺 Alcohol consumption (especially with tobacco)
🦠 HPV infection (Human Papillomavirus)
Poor oral hygiene
Exposure to chemicals, dust, pollution
Family history
In India, tobacco-related cancers are a major cause of head and neck cancers.
Common Symptoms
Persistent mouth ulcer (not healing >2 weeks)
Lump in neck
Difficulty swallowing
Change in voice / hoarseness
Bleeding from mouth or nose
Ear pain
White or red patches inside mouth
⚠️ If symptoms last more than 2–3 weeks, consult a doctor.
Diagnosis
Physical examination
Endoscopy (camera test)
Biopsy (confirmatory test)
CT scan / MRI / PET scan for staging
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on stage and location:
1️⃣ Surgery
Removal of tumor (early stages often cured with surgery)
2️⃣ Radiation Therapy
High-energy rays to destroy cancer cells
3️⃣ Chemotherapy
Anti-cancer medicines (often combined with radiation)
4️⃣ Targeted Therapy / Immunotherapy
Used in advanced or recurrent cases