Head and neck cancers occur in various tissues and cavities in the head and neck region. Most head and neck cancers begin in the squamous or scale-like cells that line the mucous membranes in the head and neck. These surfaces include the lining of the nose, mouth and throat.

Head and neck cancers comprise about 3 to 5 percent of all cancers that occur in the United States and are more common in men, according to the National Cancer Institute. They are identified by the area in which they begin. For example, if the cancer begins in the mouth, it is diagnosed as oral cancer, and if it begins in the larynx, it is identified as laryngeal cancer. Head and neck cancer can be located in the:

• Oral cavity (mouth)
  
  
• Nose and sinuses
  
  
• Pharynx (tube that is part of the digestive tract, running behind the nasal cavities, mouth and larynx)
  
  
• Larynx (voice box). Cartilage in the throat that houses the vocal cords; rests below the pharynx and above the trachea (windpipe)
  
  
• Lymph nodes in the neck, if the cancer has spread
  
  
• Salivary glands

Head and neck cancers are strongly linked to tobacco and alcohol use, although there are other risk factors as well. The symptoms vary with the location and type of cancer and often go undetected in early cancer. The most common symptoms associated with head and neck cancer include:

• Lump or sore that does not heal  (e.g., in the mouth or throat)
• Sore throat that does not go away
• White or red patch that remains
• Problems swallowing
• Change in the voice (hoarse or raspy)

The treatment for head and neck cancers depends on the type of cancer, the location, the stage of cancer and the patient’s age and general health. Treatment may include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

When detected early, many head and neck cancers can be cured. Knowing the signs and symptoms, along with early diagnosis and treatment, can improve cure rates. Patients who have had head and neck cancers have an increased risk of developing cancer in the same or surrounding area later in life. Eliminating or reducing the risk factors, especially tobacco and alcohol use, decreases the chances of developing a second cancer.