Head & Neck cancers usually originate in the squamous cells that line the mucosal surfaces inside the head & neck. These are generally known as squamous cell carcinomas of the Head & Neck. Head & Neck Cancers can also begin in the salivary glands, thyroid or the paranasal sinuses.
Head & Neck cancers may further be classified by the area of head & neck in which they appear. Some of these include:
- Oral Cavity Cancer - Originates in the mouth
- Oropharyngeal Cancer - Begins in the back of the throat or mouth
- Nasopharyngeal Cancer - Starts in the upper part of the throat behind the nose
- Laryngeal Cancer -Starts in the voice box
- Hypopharyngeal cancer -starts in the lower part of the throat behind the voice box
- Paranasal Sinus Cancer - Starts in the openings around or near the nose called sinuses
- Thyroid cancer
- Parathyroid – Usually benign tumors. But cause symptoms due to its hormone hypersecretion
What are the Risk Factors?
Alcohol & Tobacco use are the two most common factors that result in head & neck cancers, especially cancers of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx & larynx. Research indicates that almost 75% of Head & Neck Cancers are due to use of Tobacco & alcohol.
Other Risk Factors:
- HPV Infections
- Consumption of Preserved or Salted Foods
- Consumption of Paan
- Poor Oral Heath
- Radiation Exposure
What are the Symptoms of Head & Neck Cancers?
- A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
- Pain in the mouth
- Lump in the cheek
- White or red patch on the gums, tongue or mouth’s lining
- A Sore throat
- Trouble Chewing or swallowing
- Trouble moving the jaw
- Numbness of the tongue
- Change in the voice
- Lump in the neck
- Persistent bad breath
What are the Treatment Options?
There are two main types of treatment used for Head & Neck Cancer:
- Local Treatment involving Surgery & Radiation
- Systemic Treatment involving Chemo & Targeted Therapy Drugs