Head and Neck Cancer

What Do I Need to Know?

Head and Neck cancer forms in the squamous cell region within the head and neck. Also known as squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck, the possibility of this form of cancer occurring within the salivary glands is possible, although uncommon.

Head and Neck cancers are categorized according to the region where begin to form:

• Oral Cavity – Lips, front two-thirds of the tongue, gums, lining within the cheeks and lips, floor of the mouth under the tongue, hard palate and the small gum area behind the wisdom teeth.
• Pharynx – A 5-inch-long hollow tube that begins behind the nose and leads up to the oesophageal region.
• Larynx – Known as the voicebox due the presence of the vocal chords, the larynx contains a piece of tissue known as the epiglottis which helps prevent food from entering air passageways.
• Paranasal sinuses & Nasal Cavity
• Salivary Glands

Risk Factors

75% of head and neck cancers are caused by tobacco and alcohol use

Human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 is a known risk factor for certain forms of head and neck cancers.

Other risks factors include:

• Preserved/Salted Foods – Can lead to nasopharyngeal cancer
• Oral Health – Poor oral hygiene may lead to cancer of the oral cavity
• Occupational Exposure – Materials such as asbestos, synthetic fibres and wood dust
• Radiation Exposure – May cause cancer of the salivary glands