What Are Head and Neck Cancers?
Head and Neck Cancers refer to a group of malignancies that occur in the tissues and organs of the oral cavity, tongue, lips, pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), nasal cavity, sinuses, thyroid gland, and salivary glands. These cancers account for approximately 10% of all cancer cases.
What Increases the Risk of Head and Neck Cancers?
Tobacco use is the leading risk factor for nearly all head and neck cancers. Both active smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke significantly increase this risk. Other important risk factors include excessive alcohol consumption, poor dietary habits, prolonged exposure to radiation or sunlight, contact with certain chemicals, and a genetic predisposition.
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.
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.
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