Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer refers to tumors that form in the mouth, nose, and sinuses, salivary glands, throat, and voice box (larynx). Squamous cell carcinomas account for the vast majority of head and neck cancers. They begin in the moist tissues of the head and neck. As the cancer progresses, the cells may spread to deeper tissues. Other cancers develop in the head and neck, including brain cancer, eye cancer, and esophageal cancer. However, they are rarely classified as head and neck cancers because the two types of cancer and their treatments are not the same.

Head and neck cancer can affect anyone, although you are more likely to develop it if:

• Use tobacco or consume large amounts of alcohol. If you do both, your risk of developing head and neck cancer increases much more.

• Male and over the age of 50

• History of head or neck cancer

• HPV (causes tonsil and base of tongue cancers)

• Exposed to wood dust or other harmful materials at work (for cancers of the sinuses, nose, and upper throat)

• Radiation treatment of the head and neck (for salivary gland cancer)

• Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with upper throat and salivary gland cancers

• Asian (for upper throat cancer)

Types of Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancers include tumors in your mouth, portions of your throat (nasopharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx), and other related structures.

• Oral cancer

• Salivary gland cancer

• Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer

• Nasopharyngeal cancer

• Oropharyngeal cancer

• Hypopharyngeal cancer

• Laryngeal cancer

Symptoms

The following are possible signs of head and neck cancer:

• Lump in the neck

• Sore in the mouth or the throat that does not heal and may be painful

• Sore throat that does not go away

• Trouble swallowing

• Vocal change or hoarseness

• Other symptoms may vary according to the type of head and neck cancer.

Causes 

Head and neck cancer develops when a normal cell becomes malignant and begins to reproduce itself. The copies form a tumour, which can penetrate tissue and spread throughout the body. Cancer that has spread is known as metastatic cancer. 

Risk factors

The most prevalent risk factors for head and neck cancer include tobacco use, alcohol intake, human papillomavirus (HPV), and betel nut chewing. Other risk factors include Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a weakened immune system, heredity, long-term exposure to cancer-causing substances, radiation, salt-cured foods, and poor dental hygiene.

Diagnose

The exams and tests used to identify head and neck cancer vary depending on the type of malignancy. Examinations and tests may include:

• Physical examination of the area suspected of cancer.

• Blood and urine tests.

• Endoscopy

• Biopsy or other operation to extract cells from a region suspected of malignancy. The cells are examined under a microscope to determine if they are abnormal.

• Imaging tests.

Treatments

The treatment for head and neck cancer will be determined by the type of cancer, its stage (how far advanced it is), your overall health, and other considerations. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, cancer immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, which uses medications or other chemicals that primarily attack specific cancer cells while causing less harm to other cells. In some situations, you may require a mix of treatments. Sometimes surgery can impair your ability to chew, swallow, or speak. Rehabilitation options include physical therapy, dietary counselling, and speech therapy.

Prevention 

You can help prevent head and neck cancer by not smoking, limiting your alcohol consumption, or not drinking at all. Getting regular dental exams and speaking with your dentist about HPV immunization.

Conclusion

Head and neck cancer pose considerable hurdles, but early detection and treatment can lead to better outcomes. Prevention through lifestyle changes, early detection through frequent screenings, and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment and care are all critical. Patients and carers should prioritize comprehensive care, which includes physical, emotional, and nutritional assistance, to manage the disease and its impact on everyday life.