Cancers that are known collectively as head and neck cancers usually begin in the squamous cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck (for example, those inside the mouth, throat, and voice box). These cancers are referred to as squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. Head and neck cancers can also begin in the salivary glands, sinuses, or muscles or nerves in the head and neck, but these types of cancer are much less common than squamous cell carcinomas.

Surgeries that we have performed successfully are as bellow -

• “Commando” Operations for Oral cancers
• Laryngectomies for Laryngeal Cancers
• Parotid Resections for Benign and malignant tumors
• Thyroidectomies for Malignant and Benign tumours

Causes of Head & Neck Cancers

Alcohol and tobacco are major risk factors for cancers of the head and neck. All tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco, snuff, or a type of chewing tobacco called betel quid) are linked to head and neck cancer (except for salivary gland cancers). Drinking any type of alcohol, such as beer, wine, or liquor, also raises the risk of getting cancers of the mouth, throat, and voice box.

About 70% of cancers in the oropharynx (which includes the tonsils, soft palate, and base of the tongue) are linked to human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted virus.

Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, such as exposure to the sun or artificial UV rays like tanning beds, is a major cause of cancer on the lips.

Occupational exposures, or being exposed to certain substances while on the job, can increase the risk of getting cancers in the nasopharynx. Working in the construction, textile, ceramic, logging, and food processing industries can cause people to be exposed to substances like wood dust, formaldehyde, asbestos, nickel, and other chemicals.

An infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, a cause of infectious mononucleosis and other illnesses, can raise the risk of cancers in the nose, behind the nose, and cancers of the salivary glands.

Radiation treatments to the head and neck can cause head and neck cancers.

About twice as many men as women get head and neck cancers. They are more likely to be diagnosed in people who are over 50 years of age.

How Can I Reduce My Risk for Head and Neck Cancers?

You can lower your risk of getting head and neck cancer in several ways

• Don’t smoke. If you smoke, quit. Quitting smoking lowers the risk for cancer.
• Don’t use smokeless tobacco products.
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
• Talk to your doctor about HPV vaccination. The HPV vaccine can prevent new infections with the types of HPV that most often cause oropharyngeal and other cancers. Vaccination is recommended only for people at certain ages.
• Use lip balm that contains sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors, and avoid indoor tanning.
• Visit the dentist regularly. Checkups often can find head and neck cancers early, when they are easier to treat.

Symptoms and Signs

People with head and neck cancer often experience the following symptoms or signs.

• Swelling or a sore that does not heal; this is the most common symptom
• Red or white patch in the mouth
• Lump, bump, or mass in the head or neck area, with or without pain
• Persistent sore throat
• Foul mouth odor not explained by hygiene
• Hoarseness or change in voice
• Nasal obstruction or persistent nasal congestion
• Frequent nose bleeds and/or unusual nasal discharge
• Difficulty breathing
• Double vision
• Numbness or weakness of a body part in the head and neck region
• Pain or difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw or tongue
• Jaw pain
• Blood in the saliva or phlegm, which is mucus discharged into the mouth from respiratory passages
• Loosening of teeth
• Dentures that no longer fit
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Ear pain or infection

If you are concerned about any changes you experience, please talk with your doctor.