Understanding Head and Neck Cancer

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Head and neck cancers usually begin in the squamous cells inside the mouth, the nose, and throat. These types of cancers of the head and neck are usually referred to as squamous cell carcinomas. They can also start in the salivary glands, but this is much less common. Head and neck cancers are categorized by the area of the head or neck in which they begin. Head and neck cancer categories include the larynx, paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity, oral cavity, salivary glands, and pharynx.

What are the risk factors for head and neck cancers?

  • Alcohol and tobacco use. The two major risk factors for developing head and neck cancers are alcohol and tobacco use. This is especially true for cancers of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx. It is estimated that at least 75 percent of head and neck cancers are caused by tobacco and alcohol use. Using both tobacco and alcohol puts people at an even higher risk for developing head and neck cancers compared to people who use on or the other. Alcohol and tobacco use are not risk factors for salivary gland cancers.
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) is another risk factor for some head and neck cancers, especially oropharyngeal cancers that involve the tonsils or the base of the tongue.
  • Radiation exposure. Radiation to the head and neck, for noncancerous conditions or cancer, is a risk factor for cancer of the salivary glands.
  • Oral health. Poor oral hygiene and missing teeth may be weak risk factors for cancers of the oral cavity. Using mouthwash with a high alcohol content may also increase the risk for cancers of the oral cavity.
  • Preserved or salted foods. Consumption of certain preserved or salted foods during childhood is a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer.
  • Paan (betel quid). Sometimes used by immigrants from Southeast Asia and is strongly associated with an increased risk of oral cancer.
  • Occupational exposure. Wood dust is a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer. Asbestos, synthetic fibers, metal, textile, ceramic, and logging have been associated with cancer of the larynx. Wood, nickel dust or formaldehyde may increase risk for cancer of the paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity.
  • Ancestry. Asian ancestry, particularly Chinese ancestry, is a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer.
  • Maté. A tea-like beverage consumed by South Americans. Has been associated with an increased risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and larynx.
  • Epstein-Barr virus infection. Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus is a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer and cancer of the salivary glands.

Signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers may include:

  • A sore throat that does not go away
  • A change or hoarseness in the voice
  • A lump or a sore that does not heal
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Larynx
    • Pain when swallowing or ear pain
  • Oral cavity
  • A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
  • A swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
  • Abnormal bleeding or pain in the mouth

Paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity

  • Sinuses that are blocked and do not clear
  • Chronic sinus infections that do not respond to treatment with antibiotics
  • Nose bleeds
  • Frequent headaches, swelling or other trouble with the eyes
  • Pain in the upper teeth
  • Problems with dentures

·         Salivary glands

  • Swelling under the chin or around the jawbone
  • Numbness or paralysis of the muscles in the face
  • Pain in the face, the chin, or the neck that does not go away

·         Pharynx

  • Trouble breathing or speaking
  • Pain when swallowing
  • Pain in the neck or the throat that does not go away
  • Frequent headaches, pain, or ringing in the ears
  • Trouble hearing