Head and neck cancer encompasses a group of cancers that develop in the mouth, throat, sinuses, and salivary glands. These cancers typically originate in squamous cells, which form the outer layer of skin and line the inside of the nose, mouth, and throat. Each year, more than 50,000 Americans receive a diagnosis of some form of head and neck cancer. According to Dr. Hicks, these cancers are most frequently observed in men over the age of 60. Common diagnoses include head and neck cancers caused by alcohol and tobacco usage, skin cancers of the head and neck such as basal cell carcinoma, and cancer of the tongue and tonsils.
Key Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer
Several factors can elevate the risk of developing head and neck cancer. Identifying and mitigating these risk factors is crucial for prevention.
Tobacco and Alcohol Use
Approximately 75% of head and neck cancers are attributable to tobacco and alcohol use. The combined effect of these substances significantly increases the risk.
Sun Exposure
Skin cancers of the head and neck often result from sun exposure. These cancers are also more likely to occur in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as transplant recipients or those taking immunosuppressants.
Hicks advises, “To avoid exposure, it is critical to apply daily SPF, wear hats, and even long-sleeve shirts to protect your skin. Sun exposure is not only limited to time spent outdoors.”
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Exposure to Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States and is an increasing cause of oropharyngeal cancer in younger, non-smoking individuals. HPV can infect the back of the throat, including the tongue and tonsils, also known as the oropharynx.
Hicks notes, “Despite HPV’s prevalence, it is important to note that the body often clears the infection on its own within one to two years. If the body is unable to dispel HPV on its own, the infection can develop into oropharyngeal cancer over the course of years.” Receiving a vaccination to prevent HPV infection may reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers.
Prevention Strategies
Adopting proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing head and neck cancer.
Hicks recommends, “Make an effort to reduce exposure by wearing daily SPF, stopping the use of tobacco products and alcohol, or scheduling regular checkups with a dentist who may notice early signs of disease.”
Recognizing Symptoms
Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Common symptoms that may indicate the need for medical intervention include:
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- A lump or lesion in the neck that persists longer than a week, grows in size, or does not heal.
- Changes in swallowing.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Changes in voice.
- Loss of appetite.
- Unintentional weight loss.
Treatment Options
The most common forms of treatment for head and neck cancer depend on the location, size, progression, and tumor type, whether it is a primary or recurrent tumor. Treatment options typically include a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.
Hicks states, “Due to the location, advanced head and neck cancers and their treatment can significantly impact patients’ quality of life. Head and neck cancer treatment can cause issues with speaking, swallowing, and breathing."
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