Head and Neck Cancer
A variety of head and neck cancers can affect the salivary gland, thyroid, sinuses, mouth, throat (pharynx), and voice box (larynx). The lymph nodes surrounding the affected area are usually affected by these tumors. A few weeks to many years may pass before the illness spreads.
The term "head and neck cancer" refers to malignancies that originate in cells located in the head and neck area.
Types of Head and Neck Cancer
Oral Cancer: It occurs in multiple sites within the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, or floor and roof of the mouth.
Pharyngeal Cancer: These tumors develop in the throat (pharynx) and can include cancers in the nasopharynx (upper part of the throat posterior to the nose), oropharynx (middle part of the throat including the tonsils), and hypopharynx (lower part of the throat).
Salivary Gland Cancer: Cancers develop in the glands that form saliva.
Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Cancer: Cancer develops in the nasal cavity and the sinuses surrounding the nose.
Laryngeal Cancer: Involves cancers of the larynx (voice box), which is vital for speech and respiration.
Who Is at Risk for Head and Neck Cancer Development?
Anything that increases the likelihood of getting a disease is a risk factor. One could not know the exact cause of their cancer. Risk factors, however, can raise a person's risk of getting cancer. You have no control over some risk variables. Some, however, could be something you can change.
- Gender: Men develop head and neck cancers more often than women.
- Poor oral hygiene: This may influence some increased risk of oral cancers.
- Family history: The presence of a family history of cancers may increase the Risk.
- Tobacco use: Cigarette smoking and chewing tobacco are major risk factors.
- Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol in excess is especially high-risk when combined with tobacco use.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV infection, especially HPV-16, is a risk factor for cancer of the oropharynx (throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue).
Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer :
- Lumps or sores: Slow healing sores in the mouth, throat, or neck.
- Difficulty swallowing: (dysphagia) or trouble with breathing.
- Voice changes: Hoarseness or loss of voice.
- Pain or bleeding: Uncommon bleeding or prolonged pain in the mouth, throat, or ear.
- Nasal problems: Persistent nasal congestion, nosebleeds, or loss of smell.
Diagnosis:
Staging is important because it helps physicians create the best possible treatment plan.
- Physical Exam: The healthcare provider checks the head, neck, mouth, and throat for any abnormal signs.
- Imaging: Imaging with a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan may be used to visualize the cancer and ascertain its extent.
- Biopsy: A biopsy consists of taking a tissue sample from the tumor for laboratory confirmation of cancer.
- Endoscopy: An endoscopy examines the inside of the throat and other areas using a flexible tube with a camera.
Treatment Options:
- Surgery entails the resection of the tumor, any diseased tissues, or lesions, or part of its larynx or some other such structure therein.
- Radiation therapy encompasses the application of high-energy rays that destroy the cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy involves those drugs that kill cancer cells or stop the growth of cancer cells. Sometimes they work in synergy with radiation (chemoradiation).
- Targeted therapy consists of those drugs that interact with cellular molecules associated with cancer cell growth.
- Immunotherapy enhances the immune system's ability to fight off any cancer cells.
Prevention:
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
- Maintain good oral hygiene and have dental checkups.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Get vaccinated against HPV, thus reducing the risk of HPV-related cancers.
- Encourage screening in high-risk patients; this can lead to early detection.
