Head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancers start in areas of the head and neck, including the mouth, salivary glands, sinuses, nasal cavity, throat and voice box. As specialists in this field, we offer personalized treatments to help you overcome cancer and lead a full life.

Every year in the United States, about 40,000 individuals are diagnosed with various types of head and neck cancers, including oral and throat cancers.

What causes head and neck cancers?

These cancers begin when cells in the head or neck change, grow out of control, and form a tumor. This can spread to other parts of the body.

• The most common type of tumor in this area is squamous cell carcinoma. This develops in the cells that line the mouth, nose and throat.
• While the exact cause of these cancers remains unknown, research has identified several risk factors.

Whether you've already received a diagnosis and a referral or are concerned about potential symptoms, schedule an appointment today. Our team of specialists in head and neck cancer is prepared to assist you.

Symptoms of head and neck cancer

If you notice any of these common symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly:

• A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal—often the primary symptom

• A lump or thick area in the cheek or neck

• A constant sore throat or feeling something stuck in the throat

• White or red patches on the gums, tongue, tonsils or mouth lining

• Chronic bad breath

• Loosening of teeth or jaw pain

• Numbness in the tongue or mouth

• Jaw swelling causing discomfort with dentures

• Difficulty chewing or swallowing

• Changes in voice

• Unexplained weight loss

Don't wait if you see any of these symptoms. Contact your doctor right away.

Common types of head and neck cancer

• Laryngeal cancer: starts in the voice box

• Hypopharyngeal cancer: begins in the lower section of the throat, situated beside and behind the voice box

• Nasal cavity cancer: starts in the opening behind the nose

• Nasopharyngeal cancer: develops in the upper portion of the throat behind the nasal cavity

• Oral cavity cancer: begins in the mouth

• Oropharyngeal cancer: starts in back of the mouth or the throat, and may include the salivary glands

• Paranasal sinus cancer: starts in the spaces around the nose, known as sinuses

Head and neck cancer FAQs

What is the survival rate for head and neck cancer?

The 5-year relative survival rates for oral and throat cancers, including all stages combined, based on data from individuals diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer between 2008 and 2014, are:

• Floor of the mouth: 53%
• Gum: 59%
• Lip: 88%
• Throat and tonsil: 69%
• Tongue: 66%

How can I reduce the risk of head and neck cancer?

While we don't always know the exact cause of these cancers, you significantly reduce your risk by:

• Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption: Tobacco and alcohol are major contributors to these cancers. Avoiding smoking altogether is the best preventive measure. If you do drink, do so in moderation or abstain entirely.

• Minimizing exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV): Infections from HPV, particularly through oral sex and multiple partners, can increase the risk of mouth and throat cancers.

• Reducing UV light exposure: Long-term exposure to UV light is a known risk factor for lip cancer and skin cancer. Take steps to limit your exposure to UV light.

• Maintaining a healthy diet: Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can help support overall health and may lower the risk of developing cancer.

• Making sure dentures fit correctly: Ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation and inflammation, which may contribute to the development of oral cancers.

• Addressing precancerous lesions: lesions (like leukoplakia or erythroplakia) should be removed if detected.

Is head and neck cancer curable?

Yes, especially when caught early and treated properly.

Your multidisciplinary care team at CU Medicine

At CU Medicine, our experts work together to create a care plan tailored to you. Your medical team may include:

• Medical oncologists

• Radiation oncologists

• Head and neck cancer surgeons

• Pathologists

• Radiologists

• Oncology nurses

• Nutritionists

• Social workers

• Speech-language pathologists

We also work closely with our Head and Neck Tumor Board on complex cases, including advanced thyroid cancers where standard treatments might no longer work.

Clinical trials

You may have the opportunity to take part in a clinical trial. We conduct hundreds of trials of new treatments and drugs through our University of Colorado Cancer Center.

Participating in a clinical trial could offer eligible individuals early access to new drugs and vaccines, well before they are available to the general public. Our team will talk with you about whether a clinical trial option is right for you.

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