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Head and Neck Cancer
Head and Neck Cancer- A guide to Symptoms, Risks, Prevention and Cure
Head and Neck Cancer- Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Cure
Head and neck cancers develop in areas such as the mouth, throat, voice box, nasal passages, or sinuses. These cancers are often linked to tobacco, alcohol use, or HPV infection. They can affect vital functions like speaking, swallowing, and breathing, making early diagnosis especially important.
As a medical oncologist, I’ve seen how awareness, prevention, and timely treatment can preserve not only survival but also quality of life. Advances in therapy now mean many people diagnosed with head and neck cancers can be treated successfully.
If you’re reading this to protect yourself or someone you care about, you’ve taken a valuable step toward awareness and early action.
What is Head and Neck Cancer?
Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in the mouth, throat, voice box, sinuses, or other areas of the head and neck region. Most of these cancers start in the squamous cells that line the moist surfaces inside the mouth, nose, and throat. Because these areas are critical for speaking, swallowing, and breathing, cancers here can significantly affect daily life if not detected early.
Types of Head and Neck Cancer
Oral Cavity Cancer: Affects the lips, tongue, gums, and lining of the mouth.
Pharyngeal Cancer: Includes nasopharyngeal (behind the nose), oropharyngeal (tonsils, base of tongue), and hypopharyngeal (lower throat).
Laryngeal Cancer: Cancer of the voice box.
Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinus Cancer: Begins inside the nose or nearby sinus cavities.
Salivary Gland Cancer: Rare cancers affecting the glands that produce saliva.
Signs and Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer
Symptoms depend on the location of the cancer, but common warning signs include:
Persistent sore throat or mouth sore that doesn’t heal
Hoarseness or change in voice
Difficulty swallowing or chewing
Swelling or lump in the neck, jaw, or mouth
Unexplained weight loss
Ear pain or persistent ear infection
Nosebleeds or blocked nasal passages
Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer
The most common risk factors include:
Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco
Alcohol consumption: Heavy and prolonged use increases risk
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Strongly linked to oropharyngeal cancers
Poor oral hygiene and dental health
Occupational exposures: Such as wood dust, asbestos, or certain chemicals
Age and gender: More common in men and typically diagnosed after age 40
Head and Neck Cancer Screening
There is no standard population-wide screening for head and neck cancers. However:
Regular dental check-ups can help identify suspicious changes in the mouth.
ENT (ear, nose, throat) evaluation is advised if persistent symptoms are present.
Biopsies and imaging tests are used to confirm diagnosis.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a medical oncologist if you experience:
A mouth sore or lump that doesn’t heal in 2–3 weeks
Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
A lump in the neck that lasts more than two weeks
Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer
Treatment depends on the cancer’s location, stage, and overall health of the patient. Options may include:
Surgery: To remove the tumor.
Radiation therapy: Often used either alone in early stages or with other treatments.
Chemotherapy: Commonly combined with radiation in advanced cases.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that attack specific cancer cell changes.
Immunotherapy: For certain advanced or recurrent cases.
Rehabilitation: Speech therapy, dental reconstruction, or swallowing therapy may be needed after treatment.
Some Facts vs Myths about Head and Neck Cancer
Myth: Only smokers get head and neck cancer.
Fact: HPV infection and other factors can also cause it.Myth: A sore throat is always harmless.
Fact: While most sore throats are due to infection, persistent ones should be checked.Myth: Head and neck cancers cannot be cured.
Fact: Many cases, especially when detected early, are highly treatable and curable.Myth: Surgery always leads to loss of speech or eating ability.
Fact: With modern techniques and rehabilitation, many patients regain normal function.
