What is it?
Head and neck cancer is a general term used for different types of cancers that develop in the sinuses, nose, mouth and salivary glands down through the throat. Head and neck cancers are the fifth most common cancers in men.
Head and neck cancers develop when abnormal cells grow and multiply in the tissue or lymph nodes in the head or neck, forming tumours. Different types of head and neck cancers include:
- Mouth
- Throat
- Voice box
- Salivary glands
- Nasal cavity and sinuses
The treatment options for the different types of head and neck cancers are similar and usually involve surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Treatment can help to relieve uncomfortable symptoms and depends on the stage and type of cancer. Diagnosing the cancer in the early stages helps to improve the chance of complete recovery.