Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that can develop in various areas of the head and neck, including the mouth, throat, voice box, nasal passages, and salivary glands. These cancers often arise from the squamous cells lining these structures.

The main causes of head and neck cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), poor oral hygiene, a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and exposure to environmental toxins in the workplace.

Head and neck cancer surgery includes various procedures, such as tumor resection, neck dissection (lymphadenectomy), and organ-preserving surgeries. The choice of surgery depends on the cancer type, stage, and location, and may involve minimally invasive or traditional approaches.

Diagnosing head and neck cancer typically involves a combination of methods, including physical examinations, imaging tests (CT scans, MRI, PET scans), biopsies, and sometimes endoscopy. A team of medical professionals will determine the most appropriate diagnostic approach.

The most significant risk factors for head and neck cancer are tobacco and alcohol use. Heavy alcohol consumption, especially when combined with smoking, greatly increases the risk of these cancers. Additionally, infection with certain HPV strains is a growing risk factor for oropharyngeal cancers.