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Home > Topic of the Month - Oral, Head and Neck Cancers
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There are five main types of head and neck cancer, named by the part of the body where they begin:
- Laryngeal and Hypopharyngeal Cancer
- Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinus Cancer
- Nasopharyngeal Cancer
- Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer
- Salivary Gland Cancer
Other types of cancer, such as thyroid cancer, parathyroid cancer and brain tumors may be located in this area of the body, but the diagnosis and treatment are much different.
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The signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers may include a lump or a sore that does not heal, a sore throat that does not go away, difficulty in swallowing, and a change or hoarseness in the voice. These symptoms may also be caused by other, less serious conditions. It is important to check with a doctor or dentist about any of these symptoms.
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Many pre-cancers and cancers of the oral cavity and oropharynx can be found early, during routine screening exams by a dentist, doctor, dental hygienist, or by self-exam. Regular dental checkups that include an exam of the entire mouth are important in finding oral and oropharyngeal cancers (and pre-cancers) early. The American Cancer Society also recommends that doctors examine the mouth and throat as part of a routine cancer-related checkup.
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Although curing the cancer is the primary goal of treatment, preserving the function of the nearby nerves, organs, and tissues is also very important. When they plan treatment, doctors consider how treatment might affect a person's quality of life, such as how a person feels, looks, talks, eats, and breathes.
Read more about Head and Neck Cancer Treatment
Read more about Oral Cancer Treatment
Doctors use head and neck radiation to treat cancer because it kills cancer cells. But radiation to the head and neck can harm normal cells, including cells in the mouth. Side effects include problems with your teeth and gums; the soft, moist lining of your mouth; glands that make saliva (spit); and jaw bones.
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You can lower your risk of developing Oral, Head and Neck Cancers by managing the risk factors that you can control, like diet and physical activity. Diets high in vegetables and fruits have been linked with lower risk of colon cancer. Diets high in processed and/or red meats have been linked with a higher risk.
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Eighty-five percent of Oral, Head and Neck Cancer's are linked to tobacco use. Smoking cigarettes is the major cause of most head and neck cancers. Chewing tobacco has been shown to cause mouth cancer. Human Papilloma Virus may be related to over half of tonsil cancers.
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