
October 25, 2023
Head and neck cancer is a medical term that collectively refers to malignant tumors developed within the head and neck region. It encompasses a range of malignancies in the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, salivary glands, and other areas. In the United States, head and neck cancer accounts for approximately 4% of all cancer cases.
According to studies, approximately 66,920 people in the United States will be diagnosed with head and neck cancer in 2023.
In this blog post, we will share detailed insights into its symptoms, causes, and head and neck cancer treatment. Read on to learn more.
This type of head and neck cancer develops in the mouth, including the lips, gums, tongue, and the lining of the cheeks.
It develops in the middle part of the throat, known as the oropharynx. The most common subtype of oropharyngeal cancer is tonsil cancer.
This type of cancer affects the bottom part of the throat, known as the hypopharynx. It is less common than other types of head and neck cancer.
It develops in the voice box or larynx, which contains the vocal cords. This type of malignancy can affect speech and breathing.
It is a rare type of head and neck cancer that affects the upper part of the throat, called the nasopharynx.
Salivary gland cancer affects the salivary glands, which produce saliva. It can occur in various salivary glands in the head and neck area.
Tobacco smoke is one of the primary risk factors causing head and neck cancer, especially oral cancer. It contains harmful chemicals that can damage the cells in the mouth, throat, and other areas, increasing the risk of cancer.
Read more: 5 Harmful Side Effects of Nicotine Gum
Drinking alcohol, especially in combination with tobacco, can further elevate the risk.
Certain high-risk HPV strains can increase the likelihood of developing head and neck cancer, particularly oropharyngeal cancers, among younger adults.
While EBV is commonly associated with conditions like mono, it can develop nasopharyngeal cancer.
A weakened immune system, such as in cases of HIV infection or after major surgeries like organ or bone marrow transplants, can make people more susceptible to cancer.
Consuming excessive salt-cured foods, like salted meats and fish, can raise the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer.
Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) may increase the risk.
Frequent exposure to certain substances at work, such as asbestos, pesticides, wood dust, or paint fumes, can contribute to head and neck cancer.
Some individuals may inherit genetic factors from their biological parents, like Fanconi anemia, which can increase the risk of several types of cancers.
Neglecting proper dental care and hygiene can increase the risk of periodontal disease and oral cancer.
Additionally, those who have previously undergone radiation therapy for cancer treatment may develop secondary cancer.
Diagnosing head and neck cancer can be challenging because its symptoms are often subtle and can mimic less severe conditions like a common cold or sore throat. The most common sign of head and neck cancer is a persistent sore throat. Other potential symptoms may include the following:
Frequent headaches
Hoarseness or voice changes
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Pain in an upper tooth
Facial numbness or pain
Persistent neck discomfort
Trouble breathing or speaking
A lump in the throat, mouth, or neck
Persistent earaches or infections
Nosebleeds
Bloody saliva or phlegm
Mouth or tongue sores that don't heal
Recurring sinus infections that are unresponsive to antibiotics
White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or inside the mouth
Swelling in the jaw, neck, or side of the face
Since there are several types of head and neck cancer, individuals may experience different symptoms other than these common ones. Consult healthcare professionals at the earliest for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Healthcare professionals recommend surgery to eliminate cancerous tumors along with surrounding healthy tissue. Surgical approaches for head and neck cancer encompass various methods:
Laser technology: Surgeons perform this surgical procedure for early-stage tumors, particularly those in the larynx.
Excision: This procedure involves removing the tumor and a margin of nearby healthy tissue.
Lymph node dissection or neck dissection: If oncologists suspect that cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, they may recommend this procedure.
Reconstructive (plastic) surgery: Surgeons perform reconstructive surgery if extensive tissue removal is necessary, such as the jaw, skin, pharynx, or tongue. This procedure aims to restore both appearance and function. Prosthodontists may create artificial dental or facial parts, while speech-language pathologists aid in relearning swallowing and communication techniques.
For some individuals, healthcare providers may recommend multiple surgeries based on cancer location, stage, and type.
It employs high-energy X-rays or particles to eliminate cancer cells, usually following a prescribed treatment schedule. The most common form of radiation therapy used in head and neck cancer is external-beam radiation therapy, where radiation originates from a machine outside the body. A specialized technique, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), minimizes harm to nearby healthy cells, reducing side effects.
Proton therapy, which uses protons instead of X-rays, is not standard for most head and neck cancers but may gain prominence with evolving technology.
Internal radiation therapy, or brachytherapy, involves radiation delivered via implants.
Read more: How to reduce the Side Effects of Radiation Therapy on Skin
It involves the use of drugs to combat cancer cells by impeding their growth and division. Chemotherapy is typically organized into cycles over a specific timeframe, employing either a single drug or a combination. Common side effects include fatigue, infection risk, nausea, hair loss, reduced appetite, and diarrhea, usually subsiding after treatment.
This treatment approach attacks cancer-specific genes, proteins, or the tumor environment, restraining cancer cell growth while sparing healthy cells. Targeted therapy is based on tumor analysis, identifying precise genetic and molecular targets.
Immunotherapy enhances the body's immune system to combat cancer cells. Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) can be used alone or with chemotherapy, depending on PD-L1 protein expression and treatment response. Nivolumab (Opdivo) is employed if cancer progresses during platinum-based chemotherapy. These immunotherapy drugs are FDA-approved for recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Individuals should discuss potential side effects of head and neck cancer treatment and management strategies with their healthcare team to make an informed decision.
While it is not entirely possible to prevent head and neck cancers, there are several proactive steps individuals can take to reduce their risk and promote early detection.
First and foremost, individuals should avoid tobacco in all its forms, whether it is smoking or inhaling secondhand smoke. Similarly, drink alcohol in moderation to lower the risk.
Another essential preventive measure is vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly for young individuals. Also, maintain good oral hygiene and get regular dental check-ups to detect any potential issues early.
Awareness and education are key to cancer prevention and early detection. Knowing the signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers and seeking immediate medical attention can make a significant difference in early detection and successful treatment.
For any queries or concerns about head and neck cancer, contact the Advanced Cancer Treatment Center, one of the best cancer centers in Florida that offers personalized cancer treatment plans.
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