From risk factors and symptoms to diagnosis and treatment options, here’s what you should know.
Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that form in the mouth, throat, sinuses and salivary glands. These cancers typically begin in squamous cells, which make up the outer layer of skin and line the inside of the nose, mouth and throat. More than 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with some form of head and neck cancer each year, most frequently in men over the age of 60, said Dr. Melanie Hicks, a specialist with Vanderbilt Otolaryngology.
Head and neck cancer risk factors
Common diagnoses include head and neck cancers caused by alcohol and tobacco usage, skin cancers of the head and neck such as basal cell carcinoma, and cancer of the tongue and tonsils. While there is no preventative screening method for head and neck cancers, understanding the risk factors and symptoms may help ensure that the cancer is caught early, when it is most treatable.
- Tobacco and alcohol use. Approximately 75% of head and neck cancers are caused by tobacco and alcohol use. “It is important to note that smoking exposure has a cumulative effect on health,” Hicks said, “meaning the total number of cigarette packs consumed directly correlates to the likelihood of developing disease.”
- Sun exposure. Skin cancers of the head and neck are caused by sun exposure and are also more likely to occur in people whose immune systems are compromised, including transplant recipients or anyone taking immunosuppressants. “To avoid exposure, it is critical to apply daily SPF, wear hats and even long-sleeve shirts to protect your skin. Sun exposure is not only limited to time spent outdoors,” Hicks said. “The sun’s harmful UV rays can pass through windows when you are spending time inside or as you are driving.”
- Exposure to human papillomavirus. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States and is a rising cause of oropharyngeal cancer in younger, non-smoking individuals. HPV can infect the back of the throat, including the tongue and tonsils, also known as the oropharynx. “Despite HPV’s prevalence, it is important to note that the body often clears the infection on its own within one to two years,” Hicks said. “If the body is unable to dispel HPV on its own, the infection can develop into oropharyngeal cancer over the course of years.” Receiving a vaccination to prevent HPV infection may reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers. Your doctor can help you determine whether the HPV vaccine is right for you.
“Make an effort to reduce exposure by wearing daily SPF, stopping the use of tobacco products and alcohol, or scheduling regular checkups with a dentist who may notice early signs of disease,” Hicks recommended. “These preventative measures will improve your quality of life and protect you from environmental factors that increase the likelihood of developing head or neck cancer.”
Head and neck cancer symptoms
Common symptoms that may indicate the need for medical intervention include a lump or lesion in the neck that persists longer than a week, grows in size or does not heal. Additional signs include changes in swallowing, difficulty breathing, changes in voice, loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss. It is important to be aware of these symptoms because early detection plays a critical role in diagnosis and receiving timely care, Hicks said.
Head and neck cancer treatments
The most common forms of treatment for head and neck cancer depends on the location, size, progression and tumor type, whether it is a primary or recurrent tumor. Treatment options typically include a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Early detection could lead to less invasive surgery with fewer complications to functions such as speaking or swallowing.
“Due to the location, advanced head and neck cancers and their treatment can significantly impact patients’ quality of life,” Hicks said. “Head and neck cancer treatment can cause issues with speaking, swallowing and breathing. Physical therapy is a critical step in recovery and often includes speech and swallowing therapy.”
“Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center operates a survivorship clinic for patients after treatment of head and neck cancers to monitor long-term side effects, provide mood therapy and non-opioid pain management in addition to rehab and physical therapy,” Hicks said.
Personalize cancer care
Vanderbilt Otolaryngology is an international leader in head and neck surgery. This team of surgeons is highly skilled in treating a variety of head and neck conditions, ranging from benign tumors in the throat or larynx to complex cancers.
