Treatment of Head and Neck Cancers
What are head and neck cancers?
Head and neck cancers are the seventh most common cancer in the world. These types of cancers account for nearly 4% of all cancers within the United States. Typically diagnosed over the age of 50 years old, these types of cancers affect more men than women. Most individuals are diagnosed with cancer of the mouth, throat or voice box. Cancers of the head and neck collectively begin in the squamous cells that line the muscle surfaces of the head and neck. Head and neck cancers can also develop in the salivary glands, sinuses or muscles/nerves in the head and neck, but this type of cancer is less common.
Cancers of the head and neck commonly develop in these places:
- Oral cavity.
- Throat (pharynx).
- Voice box (larynx).
- Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity.
- Salivary glands.
What causes head and neck cancers?
More than 70% of head and neck cancers are estimated to be avoidable based on lifestyle changes, especially in the case of tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking. Some of the common causes of head and neck cancers include the following:
- Alcohol or tobacco use: The two most important risk factors for head and neck cancers. Most head and neck cancers of the mouth and voice box are directly caused by tobacco and alcohol use.
- Infection of human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV type 16: This is a growing risk factor for oropharyngeal cancers that involve the tonsils or base of the tongue.
- Paan (betel quid): This is strongly associated with an increased risk of mouth cancers and commonly utilized in Southeast Asia.
- Occupational exposure: Exposure to things like wood dust is a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer.
- Radiation exposure: This is a risk factor for cancer of the salivary glands.
- Epstein-Barr virus infection: This is a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer and cancer of the salivary glands.
- Ancestry: Particularly Chinese ancestry is a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer.
- Underlying genetic disorders: Disorders like Fanconi anemia can increase the risk of developing precancerous lesions.
What are the signs of head and neck cancers?
The common signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers depend on the specific areas affected. These symptoms include the following:
For the oral cavity:
- A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
- Growth or swelling of the jaw.
- Unusual bleeding or discomfort in the mouth.
For the throat (pharynx):
- Pain when swallowing.
- Pain in the neck or throat.
- Pain or ringing in the ears.
- Trouble hearing.
For the voice box (larynx):
- Trouble breathing or speaking.
- Pain when swallowing.
- Ear pain.
For paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity:
- Blocked sinuses.
- Chronic sinus infections.
- Bleeding in the nose.
- Frequent headaches.
- Swelling of eyes.
- Pain in the upper teeth.
- Problems with dentures.
For the salivary glands:
- Swelling under the chin or around the jawbone.
- Numbness or paralysis of face muscles.
- Constant pain in the face, chin, or neck.
How are head and neck cancers diagnosed?
A healthcare professional will assess your head and neck area for sores or other issues. Additional testing may include:
- Imaging tests: These types of testing can help find the location and size of the cancer.
- Biopsies: To remove a sample of tissue for testing to see if it contains cancerous cells.
What are treatment options for head and neck cancers?
Head and neck cancer treatment can include surgery, radiation therapy, targeted chemotherapy, immunotherapy, clinical trials, or a combination of treatments. The Head and Neck Multidisciplinary Team at Karmanos Cancer Institute will customize an individualized treatment plan depending on the location of the tumor, the stage of the cancer, and the person’s age and overall health. Speaking with a cancer expert will allow you to find the best treatment option for you.
Early detection is one of the most powerful weapons in the fight against cancer. When it comes to world-class cancer care close to home, look no further than Karmanos.
Information includes about head and neck cancers, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.