How is head and neck cancer treated?

Head and neck cancer can begin in areas such as the mouth, throat, voice box, nose or salivary glands. The team uses examination, scans and tissue testing to identify the starting point, stage and features such as HPV-related disease. A neck lump, swollen lymph nodes or difficulty swallowing can have many causes, so these symptoms need assessment rather than a conclusion about cancer.

Surgery may remove the primary tumour and affected lymph nodes. Radiotherapy can target the tumour area and neck, either as the main treatment or after surgery. Chemotherapy may be combined with radiotherapy or used for disease that has spread. Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognise and attack some cancer cells when the tumour and treatment history make it suitable.

Before treatment, ask for a dental review and discuss swallowing, speech, hearing, nutrition and thyroid monitoring where relevant. A speech and language therapist, dietitian and specialist nurse can help protect eating and communication. Tell the team about smoking, alcohol use, medicines and any difficulty swallowing so support can begin early.

Arrange medical assessment for a neck lump that persists, unexplained swollen lymph nodes, a mouth or throat sore that does not heal, or ongoing difficulty swallowing. Seek emergency help for inability to breathe, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing neck swelling or serious bleeding. During treatment, report dehydration, fever or worsening swallowing promptly.

Where did the cancer start, and what is its stage? Is HPV testing relevant to my tumour? Would surgery affect speech, swallowing or appearance? How will nutrition be supported? Which combination of radiotherapy, medicine or surgery is recommended and why?