Head and neck cancers typically develop in the squamous cells lining the head and neck mucosal surfaces (for example, those inside the mouth, throat, and voice box). These tumours are referred to as head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Malignancies of the head and neck can also arise in the salivary glands, sinuses, muscles, or nerves of the head and neck, but these cancers are less common.
There are five primary forms of head and neck cancer, each of which is called after the portion of the body in which it develops.
They can include:
The larynx is commonly referred to as the voice box. This tube-shaped neck organ is essential for breathing, speaking, and swallowing. It is placed at the top of the trachea, or windpipe. The hypopharynx is referred to as the gullet. The lower portion of the throat encompasses the larynx.
The nasal cavity is the space immediately behind the nose via which air travels to the throat. The air-filled regions surrounding the nasal cavity are the paranasal sinuses.
The nasopharynx is the airway behind the nose and the upper portion of the throat.
Oral cavity consists of the mouth and tongue. From the tonsils to the tip of the voice box, is the oropharynx that encompasses the central portion of the throat.
The salivary gland is responsible for saliva production. Saliva is the fluid that is secreted into the mouth to keep it moist; it contains enzymes that initiate the digestion of food.
Tobacco: |
Tobacco use includes cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, as well as chewing tobacco and snuff use. It is the leading cause of head and neck cancer. Researchers estimate that 70 to 80 percent of head and neck cancers are linked to tobacco use, and the amount of tobacco use may influence the prognosis, or the likelihood of recovery. Additionally, passive smoking may raise an individual's risk of developing head and neck,and lung cancer. |
Alcohol: |
Frequent and heavy alcohol drinking increases the risk of oral, pharyngeal, laryngeal, and esophageal cancer. |
Long sun exposure: |
This is strongly associated with lip cancer and skin cancer of the head and neck due to harmful UV rays. |
Human papillomavirus (HPV): |
According to research, HPV infection is a risk factor for head and neck cancer. Sexual contact with a person who has HPV is the most prevalent route of transmission. There are various forms of HPV, known as strains. Some HPV strains are more strongly associated with certain cancer forms, according to research. |
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): |
EBV exposure, also known as the virus that causes mononucleosis or "mono," contributes to the development of nasopharyngeal cancer. |
Environmental or occupational inhalants: |
Asbestos, wood dust, paint fumes, and some chemicals may raise an individual's risk of developing head and neck cancer. |
An examination of the mouth and nose, the throat, and the tongue. A lump on your neck, lips, gums, or cheeks may be felt by your healthcare professional.
If you are suffering problems in your voice box, throat, or nasal cavity, an endoscope may be used to conduct an examination. And this procedure causes no discomfort. Blood, urine, or other bodily fluids are sent to a lab for analysis.The areas inside your head and neck can be visualized via X-rays, CAT scans, MRIs, or PET scans. It is up to your healthcare professional to select which tests are most appropriate for your situation.
A pathologist examines the tissue your cancer treatment doctor has removed under a microscope. Cancer can only be accurately diagnosed in this manner. There are a variety of ways to do this procedure, including a local anesthetic and a needle. Alternatively, you may be required to undergo a general anesthesia in the operating room.
Identifying the tumour's stage is the first step in treating head and neck cancer. The tumor's stage, as well as your age, general health, and location, will influence your treatment decision.
Radiation therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy are the most common treatments for head and neck cancers. In some cases, a patient may be treated with all four.
In early stage tumour, surgeons have the option of removing the tumour and a small amount of healthy surrounding tissue. If the cancer has migrated to the lymph nodes in the neck, they may also be removed. The patient's appearance and ability to chew, talk, and swallow may be affected by surgery on the head and neck. Reconstructive surgery and speech therapy may be necessary for some people because of these reasons. You can undergo surgery at a Surgical cancer center in Coimbatore, if your specialist has recommended it.
Chemotherapy is the employment of anti-cancer medications to kill cancer cells all over the body. It is typically used for advanced-stage head and neck malignancies. Sores in the mouth, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, weariness, rash, joint discomfort, and hair loss are all possible side effects. Consult your oncology specialist about how to address these side effects.
If surgery is not feasible then, patients are advised to undergo chemo radiation concurrently. Radiotherapy with high precision techniques (IMRT, IGRT) will deliver high dose to required areas and lesser doses to normal tissues.
Cancers of the head and neck are highly preventable. Here are three essential measures:
Tobacco use is the most prevalent cause of malignancies of the head and neck. 85 percent of these malignancies are associated with cigarette smoking. To lower your risk of head and neck cancer, you must abstain from all tobacco products.
It has also been shown that alcohol consumption contributes to head and neck cancer. Reducing your alcohol use can lower your risk of developing these malignancies.
I was treated for head and neck cancer at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital and I must say the treatment and care I received from the staff and doctors were top-notch. From diagnosis to treatment I did not have to go anywhere and I never faced any difficulty. The cancer department is well-equipped to treat any kind of cancer. It's been 3 months now and I am living peacefully without any pain. Thank you so much Sri Ramakrishna Hospital for your care and treatment.
I reached Sri Ramakrishna Hospital as I had a lump near my neck. And I was diagnosed with neck cancer, it was a tough time and my whole family was stressed. But thankfully Sri Ramakrishna Hospital gave me hope and strength through their treatment and care. I would totally recommend Sri Ramakrishna Hospital for the treatment.
Our Department of Oncology has treated over 20,000+ patients with head and neck cancer over the last 48 years. Our highly experienced cancer specialists will ensure you receive the best Head and Neck Cancer treatment in Coimbatore.