What Are Head and Neck Cancers?
What Increases the Risk of Head and Neck Cancers?
- Tobacco (smoked and smokeless): Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco are strongly linked to cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx. Smokeless tobacco increases the risk for cancers of the lip and oral cavity, including gum and cheek lining.
- Alcohol: Heavy alcohol use independently raises risk and acts synergistically with tobacco—combined use multiplies the likelihood of developing cancer in the upper aerodigestive tract.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): High-risk HPV types, particularly HPV-16, are associated with oropharyngeal cancers (tonsils, base of tongue). HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers often occur in younger individuals and can have different treatment considerations.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure is a major risk factor for lip and certain head and neck cancers.
- Occupational and Environmental Exposures: Inhalation or contact with substances such as wood dust, nickel compounds, formaldehyde, and certain industrial chemicals is linked to sinonasal cancers.
- Radiation Exposure: Prior radiation to the head and neck area (for benign or malignant conditions) increases the risk for secondary malignancies, including certain thyroid cancers and salivary gland tumors.
- Nutritional Factors: Diets low in fruits and vegetables may increase risk, while balanced nutrition rich in protective micronutrients may help reduce it.
- Genetic and Familial Factors: While most cases are sporadic, certain genetic syndromes or family histories can increase susceptibility.
What Are the Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancers?
Symptoms can differ based on where the tumor is located; however, the most common signs include:
- Painless lump in the neck
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fresh blood in the mouth
- Nosebleeds
- Nasal congestion
- Non-healing sores
How Is Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosed?
As with all cancers, a definitive diagnosis requires a biopsy. Depending on the location of the tumor, this may involve a fine needle aspiration (FNA) or an open biopsy. The collected tissue sample is then examined by a pathologist to confirm the diagnosis.
What Should Patients with Symptoms Do?
Anyone experiencing symptoms suggestive of head and neck cancer should consult a specialist to determine whether the symptoms are cancer-related. A thorough physical examination and, when necessary, endoscopic evaluation should be performed. If cancer is suspected, additional radiological imaging and biopsy procedures will be conducted.
Practical steps include:
Seek Timely Evaluation: Persistent hoarseness, a neck lump, swallowing difficulties, or non-healing mouth sores warrant prompt assessment, particularly if you smoke or drink alcohol.
- Prepare for the Visit: Bring a list of symptoms, their duration, any aggravating factors, and your medical and medication history.
- Follow Through with Testing: If endoscopy, imaging, or biopsy is recommended, completing these promptly can accelerate diagnosis and improve the chance of successful treatment.
Early evaluation reduces delays and supports better outcomes.
Which Medical Specialties Treat Head and Neck Cancers?
In Türkiye, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists generally perform biopsies and surgical treatments for head and neck cancers. However, successful treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach. The specialties involved may include ENT, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, Pathology, and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
What Are the Treatment Options for Head and Neck Cancers?
Treatment typically involves one or more of the following:
- Surgery
- Radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy
The choice of treatment depends on the tumor's location, cancer stage, the patient's overall health, and the specific type of cancer. Although head and neck cancers account for about one in ten cancer cases, mortality rates are relatively low. Early diagnosis greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Prevention and Early Diagnosis: Key to Successful Outcomes
Tobacco use is the most significant modifiable risk factor for head and neck cancers. Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products greatly reduces the risk of developing these cancers.
Early detection is equally important. Individuals who experience potential symptoms should be evaluated by experienced specialists. Once diagnosed, a multidisciplinary treatment plan should be developed at expert centers.
With early diagnosis and coordinated care, the chances of a full recovery from head and neck cancer are significantly increased.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are head and neck cancers?
Head and neck cancers include tumors that develop in the mouth, throat, voice box, nose, sinuses, thyroid, and salivary glands. These cancers vary widely in type, symptoms, and treatment needs.
What causes head and neck cancers?
Major causes include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, prolonged sun exposure, chemical exposure, and previous radiation. Genetic factors may also increase risk.
What are common symptoms of head and neck cancers?
Symptoms may include a painless neck lump, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, nosebleeds, non healing mouth sores, and persistent nasal congestion.
How are head and neck cancers diagnosed?
Diagnosis requires a biopsy. Depending on the tumor’s location, doctors may perform fine needle aspiration, endoscopy, imaging tests, or surgical biopsy to confirm the cancer type.
When should someone with symptoms see a doctor?
If symptoms such as hoarseness, a neck lump, swallowing problems, or mouth sores persist for more than a few weeks, a specialist evaluation is recommended. Early assessment improves outcomes.
Which specialists treat head and neck cancers?
ENT surgeons lead diagnosis and surgery. Treatment teams may also include medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology, pathology, nuclear medicine, and plastic and reconstructive surgery.
What are the treatment options for head and neck cancers?
Treatment may involve surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination. The choice depends on tumor type, location, stage, and the patient’s overall health.
Are head and neck cancers treatable?
Yes. When diagnosed early, many head and neck cancers have high treatment success rates. Early detection greatly improves the likelihood of full recovery.
Can head and neck cancers be prevented?
Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, protecting lips from sunlight, and preventing HPV infection help reduce risk. Maintaining good oral hygiene and a healthy diet also supports prevention.
Is HPV related to head and neck cancers?
Yes. HPV, especially type 16, is strongly linked to oropharyngeal cancers. HPV related cancers often affect younger individuals and may respond differently to treatment.
