Head & Neck Cancer
Don’t wait on the care you need. The Adventist HealthCare Cancer Centers offer industry-leading treatment options and compassionate support for patients with head and neck cancer. No matter your specific diagnosis, our experts can help you find a way forward.
What Are Head & Neck Cancers?
Head and neck cancers start in your throat, jaw, sinuses, or mouth area. Some other types of cancer may form or spread to other parts of your head, but they do not usually count as head or neck cancer.
Most head and neck cancers start in the squamous cells of your body. Squamous cells grow on the surface of your mouth and throat.
Types of Head & Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancers are usually named after their location. Depending on where your tumor is, you might have:
Most of these cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, although there are some other rare types.
What Causes Head & Neck Cancer?
Doctors don’t always know what causes cancer. However, we do know some risk factors for head and neck cancer.
Alcohol & Tobacco Use
Alcohol and tobacco use are the most common risk factors for head and neck cancers. People who use both alcohol and tobacco are more likely to develop the disease than people who use only one of those substances.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV infection is a risk factor for head and neck cancer, especially cancers in the tongue or tonsils. HPV vaccines can help protect against the disease.
Occupational Exposure
Breathing in certain materials can make you more likely to develop head and neck cancer. Workers without proper personal protective equipment (PPE) may have a higher risk when exposed to:
- Asbestos
- Formaldehyde
- Nickel dust
- Wood dust
- Other carcinogens (substances that cause cancer)
Epstein-Barr Virus
Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus is a risk factor for some head and neck cancers. This very common virus spreads through saliva and can cause mononucleosis, or mono.
Genetics
Certain types of head and neck cancer may have a genetic component. That means some people inherit genes from their parents that increase the risk of cancer.
Symptoms
Symptoms of head and neck cancer include:
- White or red patches inside your mouth
- A growth or swelling of your jaw
- Bleeding or pain inside your mouth
- Pain when swallowing
- Hearing difficulty
- Trouble breathing or speaking
- Nose bleeds
- Chronic sinus infections that don’t get better with antibiotics
- Numb or paralyzed face muscles
These symptoms can also result from conditions other than cancer.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will use certain tests to determine if you have head or neck cancer:
- Pharyngoscopy or laryngoscopy – Putting a very small mirror or camera in your mouth, nose, or throat so your doctor can see it more clearly
- Biopsy - Removing a small piece of tissue from a suspicious area to examine it in a lab
Treatment Options
Fortunately, there are many treatments available for head and neck cancers. Your doctor will recommend a treatment plan based on the type of cancer you have, how advanced the disease is, and the location of the tumor. Some treatments commonly used for head and neck cancer include:
- Surgery
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Support & Wellness Services
The Adventist HealthCare Cancer Centers offer support and wellness services to improve your quality of life during your cancer journey. Ask your cancer care team about helpful options for you and your family.
