What Is Head and Neck Cancer?

What Is Head and Neck Cancer?

Head and neck cancer isn’t a single kind of cancer. Instead, it is a category encompassing multiple cancer types that develop in the throat, nose, mouth, sinuses, or larynx. They include:

• Laryngeal cancer (develops in the larynx, or voice box)
• Hypopharyngeal cancer (develops in the lower throat, below the larynx)
• Oral cavity cancer (develops in the mouth and on the tongue)
• Salivary gland cancer (develops in the glands that produce saliva)
• Oropharyngeal cancer (develops in the tonsils and the back of the throat)
• Nasopharyngeal cancer (develops in the upper part of the throat, behind the nose)
• Nasal cavity cancer (develops in the nasal cavity, or the opening behind the nose)
• Paranasal sinus cancer (develops in the sinuses)

It is worth noting that cancers in the brain, eye, esophagus, thyroid gland, and skin are not usually classified as head and neck cancers, despite their location in the same region.

What Causes Head and Neck Cancer?

Oncologists aren’t always sure what causes head and neck cancer. However, there are several known risk factors, some of which are preventable. By reducing these factors, individuals can effectively reduce their risk of developing head and neck cancer. The risk factors include:

Alcohol and Tobacco Use

The two most significant risk factors for head and neck cancers are alcohol and tobacco use. This includes exposure to secondhand smoke, as well as the use of chewing tobacco, “snuff,” or smokeless tobacco. The risk is also cumulative; people who use both tobacco and alcohol have a greater risk of cancer than those who only use one or the other.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It has been linked to a higher prevalence of oropharyngeal cancer, though not any other cancer types. In fact, it may be responsible for up to 70% of all oropharyngeal cancer cases in the United States. The cancer can develop years after the initial HPV infection.

Other Factors

Head and neck cancers also have a variety of other risk factors, including radiation exposure, Epstein-Barr virus infection, and genetics. Individuals can speak with their physician about their cancer risk.

Signs and Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

Symptoms of head and neck cancer don’t always appear in the early stages. When symptoms do develop, they vary depending on the cancer’s location and type. However, common ones include:

• Mouth sores that don’t heal
• Red or white patches on the gums
• A lump or mass in the cheeks or neck
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Difficulty moving the tongue or jaw
• Tongue numbness
• Voice changes

Though these symptoms are sometimes caused by cancer, they may also be related to other conditions. Individuals experiencing any of these symptoms, particularly if they are pronounced, arose suddenly, or have persisted for an extended period, or who have concerns about head and neck cancer, should consult their doctor or dentist.

The recommended treatment for head and neck cancer depends on the type and location of the cancer. The cancer stage, patient’s age, and overall health are also factors in treatment planning. Options include:

• Removal of the tumor through surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapies, which destroy cancer cells with specific characteristics
• Immunotherapy
• A combination of the above

There are three primary objectives of cancer treatment. First, it aims to remove the disease or control its growth. Second, it looks to preserve the function of any areas or organs affected by cancer, if possible. Third, it helps the patient return to normal activities. Depending on the extent of the cancer, this may include reconstructive therapy or a prosthesis.

Questions to Ask After a Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosis

Receiving any cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Asking questions and discussing them with a cancer care team can help patients understand their diagnosis better. This empowers them to make informed decisions about their care, helping the RCCA team develop a plan that fits the individual’s unique needs. Questions to ask the doctor include:

• What kind of head and neck cancer do I have? Where is the tumor located?
• What stage is my cancer, and how will that affect treatment?
• Are there clinical trials available to me?
• What is the goal of each recommended treatment?
• Who will be a part of my cancer care team?
• How will this treatment affect my daily life?
• Will treatment affect my ability to chew or swallow?
• Should I see a speech-language pathologist?
• What support services are available to me?
• Will any lymph nodes need to be removed?
• What will surgery recovery look like?
• Should I seek a second medical opinion?

It may be helpful to write down questions ahead of time and to take notes while speaking with the doctor. Many people may also wish to bring a family member or friend for additional support.

Find Expert Cancer Treatment at RCCA

To learn more about head and neck cancer, get in touch with Regional Cancer Care Associates. RCCA specialists provide care to more than 30,000 new patients and 265,000 established patients each year. RCCA physicians offer patients innovative therapies, including immunotherapies and targeted therapy, cutting-edge diagnostics as well as access to approximately 300 clinical trials in community-based centers close to home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Head and Neck Cancer

What is head and neck cancer?

Head and neck cancers are several types of cancer that develop in the throat, nose, mouth, sinuses, or larynx. This category does not include brain, eye, thyroid, esophagus, or skin cancers.

Does tobacco or alcohol use cause head and neck cancer?

Head and neck cancer risk increases with tobacco and alcohol use. People who use both tobacco and alcohol are at higher risk of cancer than those who use only one or the other. People who use either tobacco or alcohol are at higher risk than those who use neither.

Does HPV cause head and neck cancer?

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, has been tied to a much higher risk of oropharyngeal cancer. It does not increase the risk of other cancer types.

What are treatments for head and neck cancer?

Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and combinations of the above.

How can I reduce my risk of head and neck cancer?

People can reduce their risk of cancer by reducing or eliminating their alcohol and tobacco consumption, getting the HPV vaccine, and appropriately using condoms and dental dams.