What Is Head and Neck Cancer?
Head and neck cancers are a group of cancers that originate in the tissues and organs of the head and neck region. Most head and neck cancers begin in the squamous cells that line the mucosal surfaces inside the mouth, throat, and voice box. These cancers require highly specialized, multidisciplinary care for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
The main types of head and neck cancer include:
- Oral Cavity Cancer: Cancer of the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, and inside of the cheeks.
- Oropharyngeal Cancer: Cancer of the middle part of the throat, including the tonsils and base of the tongue; often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Laryngeal (Voice Box) Cancer: Cancer that affects the larynx, which plays a key role in breathing, speaking, and swallowing.
- Hypopharyngeal Cancer: Cancer of the lower part of the throat surrounding the larynx.
- Nasopharyngeal Cancer: Cancer that begins in the upper part of the throat behind the nose.
- Sinonasal Cancer: Cancer of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.
- Salivary Gland Cancer: Cancer that develops in the major or minor salivary glands.
- Head and Neck Skin Cancers: Including advanced or aggressive skin cancers that affect the face, scalp, and neck.
Each type of head and neck cancer differs in risk factors, symptoms, and treatment strategies. At the GW Cancer Center, patients receive personalized, multidisciplinary care from specialists with expertise in head and neck cancers.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase the risk of developing head and neck cancer. These vary by cancer type and individual health history:
- Tobacco Use: Cigarette smoking, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco significantly increase risk.
- Alcohol Use: Heavy and prolonged alcohol consumption is a major risk factor, especially when combined with tobacco use.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV infection, particularly HPV-16, is a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer.
- Age: Most head and neck cancers occur in individuals over age 50.
- Gender: Head and neck cancers are more common in men.
- Sun Exposure: Increases the risk of cancers of the lip and skin of the head and neck.
- Poor Oral Health: Chronic oral irritation and poor dental hygiene may increase risk.
- Occupational Exposures: Such as asbestos, wood dust, nickel, or certain chemicals.
- Weakened Immune System: Including people with immune disorders or those taking immunosuppressive medications.
- Family History: A family history of head and neck cancer may increase risk in some cases.
Head and neck cancers can also occur in individuals without known risk factors. The GW Cancer Center offers risk assessment, prevention counseling, and early evaluation for individuals with concerning symptoms.