Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers arising in areas such as the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, voice box and nearby glands. The exact diagnosis depends on the tissue where it begins and whether it has reached nearby lymph nodes. Treatment is planned around the site, stage and your general health.

A neck lump is a very common presentation of head and neck cancer. Difficulty swallowing is a common presentation, and swollen lymph nodes are also a common presentation. Other changes can include a persistent sore area in the mouth, hoarseness, a blocked or bleeding nose, an unexplained earache, or trouble moving the jaw. These symptoms can also arise from infection or other non-cancerous conditions.

Head and neck cancer begins when cells acquire changes that disrupt normal growth and repair. Tobacco and alcohol can damage cells in the mouth and throat. Some cancers are linked with HPV infection, especially in parts of the throat. Several factors may act together, and a diagnosis cannot be made from one exposure or symptom.

The cancer may remain near its original site or extend into nearby tissue and lymph nodes. Its effects depend on the location: a throat tumour may affect swallowing, while a voice-box tumour may alter speech. Imaging, examination and tissue results help the team describe its extent and choose treatment.

Risk can be influenced by tobacco use, regular alcohol exposure, certain HPV infections, prolonged sun exposure for some lip cancers, and previous changes in the head and neck. Risk factors do not determine an individual diagnosis; people without them can also develop cancer.

Evaluation may include examination of the mouth, throat, nose and neck, a flexible camera examination, imaging, and a biopsy. A sample from a neck lump or the primary area can identify cancer cells. Tests may also check lymph nodes and nearby structures so treatment can be planned accurately.

Care may combine tumour removal surgery, neck dissection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Nutrition support can help when swallowing is difficult, while cancer rehabilitation may address speech, movement, swallowing and daily activities. The combination depends on the cancer site, extent, cell features and your preferences.

Recovery can involve changes in eating, speech, saliva, taste, hearing or appearance. A speech and swallowing specialist, dietitian, dentist and rehabilitation team may help you adapt. Ask for a written mouth-care plan and report pain, dehydration, choking or difficulty maintaining food and fluids.

Complications may include swallowing problems, weight loss, dental issues, dry mouth, voice changes, reduced neck movement, infection or treatment-related fatigue. Urgent help is needed for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow fluids, uncontrolled bleeding or sudden swelling of the neck.

Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, protecting the lips from strong sunlight and discussing HPV vaccination can reduce risk for some head and neck cancers. Regular dental and medical review helps persistent mouth or throat changes receive attention.

Choose a head and neck cancer team with surgery, oncology, radiology, pathology, dental, nutrition, speech and rehabilitation expertise. Before treatment, ask how swallowing, voice, nutrition and appearance will be supported alongside cancer care.