Head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancer risk factors

Tobacco use is the most preventable cause of death from head and neck cancer. This includes not only smoking but also using smokeless tobacco or spit tobacco.

E-cigarettes and vaping products might also pose health risks and shouldn't be considered a safe alternative to smoking. Alcohol is another common cause of cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box and tongue.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many cancers of the tonsils, tongue and back of the mouth are linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U.S. The CDC also states that the HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that can cause oropharyngeal cancers, so it might also prevent these cancers.

Symptoms of head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancers usually begin in the cells that line the surfaces of your mouth, throat and voice box. Early detection is key to treating these types of cancer successfully.

Although symptoms can vary according to the type of cancer, the following symptoms are the most common.

Bleeding

In some cases, bleeding in your mouth is caused by tumors in your nose, mouth, throat or lungs.

Changes in your skin

Basal cell skin cancer is the most common type of head and neck cancer. However, this type of cancer is rarely serious if diagnosed and treated early.

Skin cancers, such as Basal cell skin cancer, can start as a small, pale patch on your skin that slowly enlarges over time.

Difficulty swallowing

Cancers that begin in the throat or esophagus can make it difficult to swallow. If have a problem swallowing every time you try to eat, schedule an appointment to see a doctor.

Earache that doesn't go away

Persistent earaches can be a sign of tumor growth or an infection in your throat. Visit an ear, nose and throat specialist if a persistent earache is accompanied by painful swallowing, hoarseness or a lump in your neck.

Growth in your mouth

A sore in your mouth or swelling in your tongue could be a sign of cancer. These sores might be painless but could still signify a tumor or cancer. If you have an ulcer or swelling in your mouth or tongue that persist for more than two weeks, it’s important to consult a physician.

Lump in your neck

Typically, cancers that are first present in the head or neck travel to the lymph nodes in your neck before spreading to other parts of the body. A lump in your neck might be the first sign of cancer in the mouth, throat, larynx, thyroid gland or salivary glands. See a doctor as soon as possible if a lump in your neck remains for two weeks or more.

Voice changes

The majority of cancers that develop in your voice box cause a change in your voice. Most voice changes aren't caused by cancer, but if you're hoarse or your voice changes persist for more than two weeks, you need to see a doctor.

Head and neck cancer services

Our cancer specialists offer comprehensive treatment options tailored to your individual situation. We prioritize doing whatever we can to help you on your health journey.

Our head and neck cancer services include the following:

• 3D imaging
• Advanced microscopes
• Intraoperative imaging
• Laser
• Navigation systems
• Robotic surgical systems
• Tissue biopsy and pathology