View source for Head and neck cancer

{{short description|Cancer arises in the head or neck region}}
{{Copy edit|date=August 2022}}
{{Infobox medical condition (new)
| name            = Head and neck cancer
| image           = PLoS oral cancer.png
| caption         = Extensive [[cancer of the tongue]] with surrounding [[lichen planus]]
| field           = [[Oncology]], [[oral and maxillofacial surgery]]
| symptoms        = Lump or sore that does not heal, sore throat that does not go away, trouble swallowing, change in the voice<ref name="NCI" />
| complications   = 
| onset           = 
| duration        = 
| types           = 
| causes          = 
| risks           = [[Alcohol (drug)|Alcohol]], [[tobacco]], [[betel quid]], [[human papillomavirus]], [[radiation exposure]], certain workplace exposures, [[Epstein-Barr virus]]<ref name="NCI" /><ref name=WCR2014 />
| diagnosis       = [[Tissue biopsy]]<ref name="NCI" />
| differential    = 
| prevention      = Not using tobacco or alcohol<ref name=WCR2014 />
| treatment       = Surgery, [[radiation therapy]], [[chemotherapy]], [[targeted therapy]]<ref name="NCI" />
| medication      = 
| prognosis       = 
| frequency       = 5.5 million (affected during 2015)<!-- prevalence --><ref name=GBD2015Pre>{{cite journal | vauthors = Vos T, Allen C, Arora M, Barber RM, Bhutta ZA, Brown A, etal | collaboration = GBD 2015 Disease and Injury Incidence and Prevalence Collaborators | title = Global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability for 310 diseases and injuries, 1990-2015: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015 | journal = Lancet | volume = 388 | issue = 10053 | pages = 1545–1602 | date = October 2016 | pmid = 27733282 | pmc = 5055577 | doi = 10.1016/S0140-6736(16)31678-6 }}</ref>
| deaths          = 379,000 (2015)<ref name=GBD2015De>{{cite journal | vauthors = Wang H, Naghavi M, Allen C, Barber RM, Bhutta ZA, Carter A | collaboration = GBD 2015 Mortality and Causes of Death Collaborators | title = Global, regional, and national life expectancy, all-cause mortality, and cause-specific mortality for 249 causes of death, 1980-2015: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015 | journal = Lancet | volume = 388 | issue = 10053 | pages = 1459–1544 | date = October 2016 | pmid = 27733281 | pmc = 5388903 | doi = 10.1016/s0140-6736(16)31012-1 }}</ref>
|alt=}}
<!-- Definition and symptoms -->
'''Head and neck cancer''' develops from tissues in the lip and oral cavity (mouth), [[larynx]] (throat), [[salivary gland]]s, nose, sinuses or the skin of the face.<ref name="Aupérin 178–186">{{cite journal | vauthors = Aupérin A | title = Epidemiology of head and neck cancers: an update | journal = Current Opinion in Oncology | volume = 32 | issue = 3 | pages = 178–186 | date = May 2020 | pmid = 32209823 | doi = 10.1097/CCO.0000000000000629 | s2cid = 214644380 }}</ref> The most common types of head and neck cancers occur in the lip, mouth, and larynx.<ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/> Symptoms predominantly include a sore that does not heal or a change in the voice.<ref name="NCI" /> Some may experience a sore throat that does not go away. In those with advanced disease, there may be unusual bleeding, facial pain, numbness or swelling, and visible lumps on the outside of the neck or oral cavity. Given the location of these cancers, trouble breathing may also be present.<ref name="NCIfact">{{cite web |date=29 March 2017 |title=Head and Neck Cancers |url=https://www.cancer.gov/types/head-and-neck/head-neck-fact-sheet |website=[[National Cancer Institute|NCI]] |access-date=7 February 2021}}</ref> <!-- Cause and diagnosis -->

The majority of head and neck cancer is caused by the use of [[Alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] or [[tobacco]], including [[smokeless tobacco]], with increasing cases linked to the [[human papillomavirus]] (HPV).<ref name="NCIfact" /><ref name="WCR2014" /> Other risk factors include [[Epstein-Barr virus]], [[betel quid]], [[radiation exposure]], certain workplace exposures.<ref name="NCIfact" /> About 90% are pathologically classified as [[Squamous cell carcinoma|squamous cell cancers]].<ref name=Vug2015>{{cite journal | vauthors = Vigneswaran N, Williams MD | title = Epidemiologic trends in head and neck cancer and aids in diagnosis | journal = Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America | volume = 26 | issue = 2 | pages = 123–141 | date = May 2014 | pmid = 24794262 | pmc = 4040236 | doi = 10.1016/j.coms.2014.01.001 }}</ref><ref name=WCR2014>{{cite book|title=World Cancer Report 2014|date=2014|publisher=World Health Organization|isbn=978-9283204299|pages=Chapter 5.8}}</ref> The diagnosis is confirmed by [[tissue biopsy]].<ref name="NCIfact" /> The degree of surrounding tissue invasion and distant spread may be determined by [[medical imaging]] and [[blood tests]].<ref name="NCIfact" />

<!-- Prevention and treatment -->
Not using tobacco or alcohol can reduce the risk for head and neck cancer.<ref name=WCR2014 /> The HPV vaccine may reduce the lifetime risk of oral cancer if taken prior to the onset of sexual activity, but confirmation will likely not be known until around 2060.<ref name=":3">{{cite journal | vauthors = Chow LQ | title = Head and Neck Cancer | journal = The New England Journal of Medicine | volume = 382 | issue = 1 | pages = 60–72 | date = January 2020 | pmid = 31893516 | doi = 10.1056/nejmra1715715 | s2cid = 209482428 }}</ref> This is because oropharyngeal cancer typical presents in the 4th – 6th decade of life, and this is a relatively new vaccine. While [[Cancer screening|screening]] in the general population does not appear to be useful, screening high risk groups by examination of the throat might be useful.<ref name=WCR2014 /> Head and neck cancer often is curable if it is diagnosed early; however, outcomes are typically poor if it is diagnosed late.<ref name=WCR2014 /> Treatment may include a combination of surgery, [[radiation therapy]], [[chemotherapy]], and [[targeted therapy]].<ref name="NCIfact" /> Previous diagnosis and treatment of one head and neck cancer confers higher risk of developing a second head and neck cancer or recurrence.<ref name="NCIfact" />

<!-- Epidemiology -->Globally, head and neck cancer accounts for 650,000 new cases of cancer and 330,000 deaths annually on average. In 2018, it was the seventh most common cancer worldwide with 890,000 new cases documented and 450,000 dying from the disease.<ref name=":3" /> In the United States, head and neck cancer makes up 3% of all cancer cases (averaging 53,000 new diagnoses per year) and 1.5% of cancer deaths.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Siegel RL, Miller KD, Jemal A | title = Cancer statistics, 2020 | journal = CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians| volume = 70 | issue = 1 | pages = 7–30 | date = January 2020 | pmid = 31912902 | doi = 10.3322/caac.21590 | doi-access = free }}</ref> The 2017 worldwide figure cites head and neck cancers as representing 5.3% of all cancers (not including non-melanoma skin cancers).<ref name="pmid31560378">{{cite journal | vauthors = Fitzmaurice C, Abate D, Abbasi N, Abbastabar H, Abd-Allah F, Abdel-Rahman O, etal | collaboration = Global Burden of Disease Cancer Collaboration | title = Global, Regional, and National Cancer Incidence, Mortality, Years of Life Lost, Years Lived With Disability, and Disability-Adjusted Life-Years for 29 Cancer Groups, 1990 to 2017: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study | journal = JAMA Oncology | volume = 5 | issue = 12 | pages = 1749–1768 | date = December 2019 | pmid = 31560378 | pmc = 6777271 | doi = 10.1001/jamaoncol.2019.2996 | url = }}</ref><ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/>  Notably, head and neck cancer secondary to chronic alcohol or tobacco use has been steadily declining as less of the population chronically smokes tobacco.<ref name=":3" /> However, HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer is rising, particularly in younger people in westernized nations, which is thought to be reflective of changes in oral sexual practices, specifically with regard to the number of oral sexual partners.<ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/><ref name=":3" /> This increase since the 1970s has mostly affected wealthier nations and male populations.<ref name="Gillison_2014">{{cite journal | vauthors = Gillison ML, Castellsagué X, Chaturvedi A, Goodman MT, Snijders P, Tommasino M, Arbyn M, Franceschi S | display-authors = 6 | title = Eurogin Roadmap: comparative epidemiology of HPV infection and associated cancers of the head and neck and cervix | journal = International Journal of Cancer | volume = 134 | issue = 3 | pages = 497–507 | date = February 2014 | pmid = 23568556 | doi = 10.1002/ijc.28201 | s2cid = 37877664 }}</ref><ref name="Gillison_2015">{{cite journal | vauthors = Gillison ML, Chaturvedi AK, Anderson WF, Fakhry C | title = Epidemiology of Human Papillomavirus-Positive Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma | journal = Journal of Clinical Oncology | volume = 33 | issue = 29 | pages = 3235–3242 | date = October 2015 | pmid = 26351338 | pmc = 4979086 | doi = 10.1200/JCO.2015.61.6995 }}</ref><ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/> This is due to evidence suggesting that transmission rates of HPV from women to men are higher than men to women, as women often have a higher immune response to infection.<ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/><ref name="pmid25043222">{{cite journal | vauthors = Giuliano AR, Nyitray AG, Kreimer AR, Pierce Campbell CM, Goodman MT, Sudenga SL, Monsonego J, Franceschi S | display-authors = 6 | title = EUROGIN 2014 roadmap: differences in human papillomavirus infection natural history, transmission and human papillomavirus-related cancer incidence by gender and anatomic site of infection | journal = International Journal of Cancer | volume = 136 | issue = 12 | pages = 2752–2760 | date = June 2015 | pmid = 25043222 | pmc = 4297584 | doi = 10.1002/ijc.29082 }}</ref>

The usual age at diagnosis is between 55 and 65 years old.<ref name="SEER2016" /> The average [[5-year survival]] following diagnosis in the [[developed world]] is 42–64%.<ref name="SEER2016">{{cite web|title=SEER Stat Fact Sheets: Oral Cavity and Pharynx Cancer|url=http://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/oralcav.html|website=SEER|access-date=29 September 2016|date=April 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161115143038/http://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/oralcav.html|archive-date=15 November 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite book| vauthors = Beyzadeoglu M, Ozyigit G, Selek U |title=Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Cancers: A Case-Based Review|date=2014|publisher=Springer|isbn=9783319104133|page=18|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zcGPBQAAQBAJ&pg=PA18|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910182726/https://books.google.com/books?id=zcGPBQAAQBAJ&pg=PA18|archive-date=2017-09-10}}</ref>
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==Signs and symptoms==
Symptoms predominantly include a sore of the face or oral cavity that does not heal, trouble swallowing, or a change in the voice. In those with advanced disease, there may be unusual bleeding, facial pain, numbness or swelling, and visible lumps on the outside of the neck or oral cavity.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = McIlwain WR, Sood AJ, Nguyen SA, Day TA | title = Initial symptoms in patients with HPV-positive and HPV-negative oropharyngeal cancer | journal = JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery | volume = 140 | issue = 5 | pages = 441–447 | date = May 2014 | pmid = 24652023 | doi = 10.1001/jamaoto.2014.141 | doi-access = free }}</ref> Head and neck cancer often begins with benign signs and symptoms of disease, like an enlarged [[lymph node]] on the outside of the neck, a [[Hoarse voice|hoarse-sounding voice]] or progressive worsening cough or sore throat. In the case of head and neck cancer, these symptoms will be notably persistent and become chronic. There may be a lump or a sore in the throat or neck that does not heal or go away. There may be difficult or painful swallowing. Speaking may become difficult. There may also be a persistent [[otalgia|earache]].<ref>{{Cite book|title=Head and neck cancer : emerging perspectives|date=2003|publisher=Academic Press| vauthors = Ensley JF |isbn=978-0-08-053384-1|location=Amsterdam|oclc=180905431}}</ref>

Other symptoms can include: a lump in the lip, mouth or gums, ulcers or mouth sores that do not heal, bleeding from the mouth or numbness, bad breath, discolored patches that persist in the mouth, a sore tongue, and slurring of speech if the cancer is affecting the tongue. There may also be congested sinuses, weight loss, and some numbness or paralysis of [[facial muscle]]s.

===Mouth===
{{Main|Oral cancer}}
[[File:Oral cancer (1) squamous cell carcinoma histopathology.jpg|thumb|Squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth]]

[[Squamous cell cancer]]s are common in areas of the mouth, including the inner lip, [[tongue]], [[floor of mouth]], [[gums]], and [[hard palate]]. Cancers of the mouth are strongly associated with [[tobacco]] use, especially use of [[chewing tobacco]] or [[dipping tobacco]], as well as heavy [[alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] use. Cancers of this region, particularly the tongue, are more frequently treated with [[surgery]] than are other head and neck cancers. Lip and oral cavity cancers are the most typically encountered type of head and neck cancers.<ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/>

Surgeries for oral cancers include:
* Maxillectomy (can be done with or without [[orbital exenteration]])
* Mandibulectomy (removal of the lower jaw or part of it)
* [[Glossectomy]] (tongue removal, can be total, hemi or partial)
* Radical [[neck dissection]]
* Combinational e.g., glossectomy and [[laryngectomy]] done together.

The defect is typically covered/improved by using another part of the body and/or skin grafts and/or wearing a [[prosthesis]].

===Nose===
{{Main|Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer|Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma}}
[[Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer]] affects the [[nasal cavity]] and the [[paranasal sinuses]]. Most of these cancers are squamous cell carcinomas.<ref name="NCI19">{{cite web |title=Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer Treatment (Adult) (PDQ®)–Patient Version |url=https://www.cancer.gov/types/head-and-neck/patient/adult/paranasal-sinus-treatment-pdq |website=National Cancer Institute |access-date=4 December 2019 |language=en |date=8 November 2019}}</ref>

===Nasopharynx===
{{main|Nasopharynx cancer}}
Nasopharyngeal cancer arises in the [[nasopharynx]], the region in which the [[nasal cavity|nasal cavities]] and the [[Eustachian tube]]s connect with the upper part of the throat. While some nasopharyngeal cancers are biologically similar to the common head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs), "poorly differentiated" nasopharyngeal carcinoma is [[lymphoepithelioma]], which is distinct in its [[epidemiology]], biology, clinical behavior, and treatment, and is treated as a separate disease by many experts.

===Throat===
{{Main| Oropharyngeal cancer|HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer}}
Most [[oropharyngeal cancer]]s are squamous cell carcinomas that begin in the [[oropharynx]] (throat), the middle part of the throat that includes the [[soft palate]], the base of the [[tongue]], and the [[tonsil]]s.<ref name="NCI">{{cite web |title=Oropharyngeal Cancer Treatment (Adult) (PDQ®)–Patient Version |url=https://www.cancer.gov/types/head-and-neck/patient/adult/oropharyngeal-treatment-pdq |website=National Cancer Institute |access-date=28 November 2019 |language=en |date=22 November 2019}}</ref> Squamous cell cancers of the tonsils are more strongly associated with [[human papillomavirus]] infection than are cancers of other regions of the head and neck. [[HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer]] generally has a better outcomes than HPV-negative disease with a 54% better survival,<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = O'Rorke MA, Ellison MV, Murray LJ, Moran M, James J, Anderson LA | title = Human papillomavirus related head and neck cancer survival: a systematic review and meta-analysis | journal = Oral Oncology | volume = 48 | issue = 12 | pages = 1191–1201 | date = December 2012 | pmid = 22841677 | doi = 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2012.06.019 | url = https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237088860 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170910182726/https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Liam_Murray/publication/237088860_Human_papillomavirus_related_head_and_neck_cancer_survival_A_systematic_review_and_meta-analysis/links/53d645490cf2a7fbb2ea985f.pdf | archive-date = 2017-09-10 }}</ref> but this advantage for HPV associated cancer applies only to oropharyngeal cancers.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Ragin CC, Taioli E | title = Survival of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in relation to human papillomavirus infection: review and meta-analysis | journal = International Journal of Cancer | volume = 121 | issue = 8 | pages = 1813–1820 | date = October 2007 | pmid = 17546592 | doi = 10.1002/ijc.22851 | doi-access = free }}</ref>

People with oropharyngeal carcinomas are at high risk of developing second primary head and neck cancer.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Krishnatreya M, Rahman T, Kataki AC, Das A, Das AK, Lahkar K | title = Synchronous primary cancers of the head and neck region and upper aero digestive tract: defining high-risk patients | journal = Indian Journal of Cancer | volume = 50 | issue = 4 | pages = 322–326 | date = 2013 | pmid = 24369209 | doi = 10.4103/0019-509x.123610 }}</ref>

===Hypopharynx===
{{Main|Hypopharyngeal cancer}}
The [[hypopharynx]] includes the pyriform sinuses, the posterior pharyngeal wall, and the postcricoid area. Tumors of the hypopharynx frequently have an advanced stage at diagnosis, and have the most adverse prognoses of pharyngeal tumors. They tend to [[metastasis|metastasize]] early due to the extensive lymphatic network around the [[larynx]].

===Larynx===
{{Main|Laryngeal cancer}}
Laryngeal cancer begins in the [[larynx]] or "voice box", and is the second most common type of head and neck cancer encountered.<ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/> Cancer may occur on the [[vocal folds]] themselves ("glottic" cancer), or on tissues above and below the true cords ("supraglottic" and "subglottic" cancers respectively). Laryngeal cancer is strongly associated with [[tobacco smoking]].

Surgery can include laser excision of small vocal cord lesions, partial laryngectomy (removal of part of the larynx) or total laryngectomy (removal of the whole larynx). If the whole larynx has been removed, the person is left with a permanent tracheostomy. Voice rehabilitation in such patients can be achieved through three important ways – esophageal speech, tracheoesophageal puncture, or electrolarynx. One would likely require the help of intensive teaching and speech therapy and/or an electronic device.

===Trachea===
Cancer of the [[trachea]] is a rare cancer usually classed as a [[lung cancer]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Throat cancer {{!}} Head and neck cancers {{!}} Cancer Research UK |url=https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/head-neck-cancer/throat |website=www.cancerresearchuk.org |access-date=28 November 2019}}</ref>

Most tumors of the [[salivary glands]] differ from the common squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck in cause, [[histopathology]], clinical presentation, and therapy. Other uncommon tumors arising in the head and neck include [[teratoma]]s, [[adenocarcinomas]], [[adenoid cystic carcinoma]]s, and [[mucoepidermoid carcinoma]]s.<ref name="ridge">{{cite book | vauthors = Ridge JA, Glisson BS, Lango MN, Feigenberg S, Horwitz EM | chapter = Head and neck tumors. | veditors = Pazdur R, Wagman LD, Camphausen KA, Hoskins WJ | title = Cancer management: a multidisciplinary approach. | edition = 11th | date = 2008 | pages = 39–86 | chapter-url = http://thymic.org/uploads/reference_sub/04headneck.pdf }}</ref> Rarer still are [[melanomas]] and [[lymphomas]] of the upper aerodigestive tract.

==Causes==
===Alcohol and tobacco===
{{Main|Tobacco smoking|Alcohol and cancer}}
[[File:Guanine and 2 oxidative products.svg|thumb|right|500px|When DNA undergoes oxidative damage, two of the most common damages change guanine to 8-hydroxyguanine or to 2,6-diamino-4-hydroxy-5-formamidopyrimidine.]]
Around 75% of cases are caused by [[alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] and [[tobacco]] use.<ref name="NCI" />

[[Tobacco smoking]] is one of the main risk factors for head and neck cancer. A major carcinogenic compound in [[tobacco smoke]] is [[acrylonitrile]].<ref name=Cunningham>{{cite journal | vauthors = Cunningham FH, Fiebelkorn S, Johnson M, Meredith C | title = A novel application of the Margin of Exposure approach: segregation of tobacco smoke toxicants | journal = Food and Chemical Toxicology | volume = 49 | issue = 11 | pages = 2921–2933 | date = November 2011 | pmid = 21802474 | doi = 10.1016/j.fct.2011.07.019 }}</ref> Acrylonitrile appears to indirectly cause [[DNA damage]] by increasing [[oxidative stress]], leading to increased levels of [[8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine]] (8-oxo-dG) and [[DNA-formamidopyrimidine glycosylase|formamidopyrimidine]] in DNA.<ref name="pmid19546159">{{cite journal | vauthors = Pu X, Kamendulis LM, Klaunig JE | title = Acrylonitrile-induced oxidative stress and oxidative DNA damage in male Sprague-Dawley rats | journal = Toxicological Sciences | volume = 111 | issue = 1 | pages = 64–71 | date = September 2009 | pmid = 19546159 | pmc = 2726299 | doi = 10.1093/toxsci/kfp133 }}</ref> (see image). Both 8-oxo-dG and formamidopyrimidine are [[mutagen]]ic.<ref name="pmid16679449">{{cite journal | vauthors = Kalam MA, Haraguchi K, Chandani S, Loechler EL, Moriya M, Greenberg MM, Basu AK | title = Genetic effects of oxidative DNA damages: comparative mutagenesis of the imidazole ring-opened formamidopyrimidines (Fapy lesions) and 8-oxo-purines in simian kidney cells | journal = Nucleic Acids Research | volume = 34 | issue = 8 | pages = 2305–2315 | year = 2006 | pmid = 16679449 | pmc = 1458282 | doi = 10.1093/nar/gkl099 }}</ref><ref name="pmid23934915">{{cite journal | vauthors = Jena NR, Mishra PC | title = Is FapyG mutagenic?: Evidence from the DFT study | journal = ChemPhysChem | volume = 14 | issue = 14 | pages = 3263–3270 | date = October 2013 | pmid = 23934915 | doi = 10.1002/cphc.201300535 }}</ref> [[DNA glycosylase]] [[NEIL1]] prevents [[mutagenesis]] by 8-oxo-dG<ref name="pmid20197241">{{cite journal | vauthors = Suzuki T, Harashima H, Kamiya H | title = Effects of base excision repair proteins on mutagenesis by 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (8-hydroxyguanine) paired with cytosine and adenine | journal = DNA Repair | volume = 9 | issue = 5 | pages = 542–550 | date = May 2010 | pmid = 20197241 | doi = 10.1016/j.dnarep.2010.02.004 | hdl-access = free | hdl = 2115/43021 | s2cid = 207147128 }}</ref> and removes formamidopyrimidines from DNA.<ref name="pmid20955798">{{cite journal | vauthors = Nemec AA, Wallace SS, Sweasy JB | title = Variant base excision repair proteins: contributors to genomic instability | journal = Seminars in Cancer Biology | volume = 20 | issue = 5 | pages = 320–328 | date = October 2010 | pmid = 20955798 | pmc = 3254599 | doi = 10.1016/j.semcancer.2010.10.010 }}</ref>

However, [[tobacco smoking|cigarette smokers]] have a lifetime increased risk for head and neck cancers that is 5- to 25-fold increased over the general population.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Andre K, Schraub S, Mercier M, Bontemps P | title = Role of alcohol and tobacco in the aetiology of head and neck cancer: a case-control study in the Doubs region of France | journal = European Journal of Cancer, Part B | volume = 31B | issue = 5 | pages = 301–309 | date = September 1995 | pmid = 8704646 | doi = 10.1016/0964-1955(95)00041-0 }}</ref>
The ex-smoker's risk for developing a head and neck cancer begins to approach the risk in the general population 15 years after smoking cessation.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = La Vecchia C, Franceschi S, Bosetti C, Levi F, Talamini R, Negri E | title = Time since stopping smoking and the risk of oral and pharyngeal cancers | journal = Journal of the National Cancer Institute | volume = 91 | issue = 8 | pages = 726–728 | date = April 1999 | pmid = 10218516 | doi = 10.1093/jnci/91.8.726a | hdl-access = free | hdl = 2434/520105 }}</ref> The high prevalence of tobacco and alcohol use worldwide and the high association of these cancers with these substances makes them ideal targets for enhanced cancer prevention.

Smokeless tobacco is a cause of [[oral cancer]] and [[oropharyngeal cancer]].<ref>{{Cite book| vauthors = Winn D |title=The Biology and Prevention of Aerodigestive Tract Cancers |chapter=Smokeless tobacco and aerodigestive tract cancers: recent research directions |journal=Adv Exp Med Biol |volume=320 |pages=39–46 |year= 1992|pmid=1442283|doi=10.1007/978-1-4615-3468-6_6|series=Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology|isbn=978-0-306-44244-5}}</ref>  Smokeless tobacco (including products where tobacco is chewed) is associated with a risk of developing head and neck cancers; this link has been established in the United States as well as in East Asian countries.<ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Wyss AB, Hashibe M, Lee YA, Chuang SC, Muscat J, Chen C, Schwartz SM, Smith E, Zhang ZF, Morgenstern H, Wei Q, Li G, Kelsey KT, McClean M, Winn DM, Schantz S, Yu GP, Gillison ML, Zevallos JP, Boffetta P, Olshan AF | display-authors = 6 | title = Smokeless Tobacco Use and the Risk of Head and Neck Cancer: Pooled Analysis of US Studies in the INHANCE Consortium | journal = American Journal of Epidemiology | volume = 184 | issue = 10 | pages = 703–716 | date = November 2016 | pmid = 27744388 | pmc = 5141945 | doi = 10.1093/aje/kww075 }}</ref><ref name="pmid30552826">{{cite journal | vauthors = Lee YA, Li S, Chen Y, Li Q, Chen CJ, Hsu WL, Lou PJ, Zhu C, Pan J, Shen H, Ma H, Cai L, He B, Wang Y, Zhou X, Ji Q, Zhou B, Wu W, Ma J, Boffetta P, Zhang ZF, Dai M, Hashibe M | display-authors = 6 | title = Tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking, betel quid chewing, and the risk of head and neck cancer in an East Asian population | journal = Head & Neck | volume = 41 | issue = 1 | pages = 92–102 | date = January 2019 | pmid = 30552826 | doi = 10.1002/hed.25383 | s2cid = 54632009 }}</ref>[[Cigar]] smoking is also an important risk factor for oral cancer.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Iribarren C, Tekawa IS, Sidney S, Friedman GD | title = Effect of cigar smoking on the risk of cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer in men | journal = The New England Journal of Medicine | volume = 340 | issue = 23 | pages = 1773–1780 | date = June 1999 | pmid = 10362820 | doi = 10.1056/NEJM199906103402301 | citeseerx = 10.1.1.460.1056 }}</ref> It should also be noted that the use of electronic cigarettes may also lead to the development of head and neck cancers due to the substances like propylene glycol, glycerol, nitrosamines and metals contained there in; which can cause damage to airways.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite journal | vauthors = Ralho A, Coelho A, Ribeiro M, Paula A, Amaro I, Sousa J, Marto C, Ferreira M, Carrilho E | display-authors = 6 | title = Effects of Electronic Cigarettes on Oral Cavity: A Systematic Review | journal = The Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice | volume = 19 | issue = 4 | pages = 101318 | date = December 2019 | pmid = 31843181 | doi = 10.1016/j.jebdp.2019.04.002 | s2cid = 145920823 }}</ref><ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/> This area of study requires more research to prove correlation and/or causation, however.<ref name="ReferenceB"/><ref name="Aupérin 178–186"/>

Other environmental [[carcinogen]]s suspected of being potential causes of head and neck cancer include occupational exposures such as [[Nickel|nickel ore refining]], exposure to textile fibers, and woodworking. Use of [[marijuana]], especially when younger, has been linked to an increase in squamous-cell carcinoma cases in at least one study,<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Zhang ZF, Morgenstern H, Spitz MR, Tashkin DP, Yu GP, Marshall JR, Hsu TC, Schantz SP | display-authors = 6 | title = Marijuana use and increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck | journal = Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | volume = 8 | issue = 12 | pages = 1071–1078 | date = December 1999 | pmid = 10613339 }}</ref> while other studies suggest use is not shown to be associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma, or associated with decreased squamous cell carcinoma.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Rosenblatt KA, Daling JR, Chen C, Sherman KJ, Schwartz SM | title = Marijuana use and risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma | journal = Cancer Research | volume = 64 | issue = 11 | pages = 4049–4054 | date = June 2004 | pmid = 15173020 | doi = 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-03-3425 | doi-access = free }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Liang C, McClean MD, Marsit C, Christensen B, Peters E, Nelson HH, Kelsey KT | title = A population-based case-control study of marijuana use and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma | journal = Cancer Prevention Research | volume = 2 | issue = 8 | pages = 759–768 | date = August 2009 | pmid = 19638490 | pmc = 2812803 | doi = 10.1158/1940-6207.CAPR-09-0048 }}</ref>

===Diet===
Excessive consumption of eggs, processed meats, and red meat were associated with increased rates of cancer of the head and neck in one study, while consumption of raw and cooked vegetables seemed to be protective.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Levi F, Pasche C, La Vecchia C, Lucchini F, Franceschi S, Monnier P | title = Food groups and risk of oral and pharyngeal cancer | journal = International Journal of Cancer | volume = 77 | issue = 5 | pages = 705–709 | date = August 1998 | pmid = 9688303 | doi = 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0215(19980831)77:5<705::AID-IJC8>3.0.CO;2-Z | doi-access = free }}</ref>

[[Vitamin E]] was not found to prevent the development of [[leukoplakia]], the white plaques that are the precursor for carcinomas of the mucosal surfaces, in adult smokers.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Liede K, Hietanen J, Saxen L, Haukka J, Timonen T, Häyrinen-Immonen R, Heinonen OP | title = Long-term supplementation with alpha-tocopherol and beta-carotene and prevalence of oral mucosal lesions in smokers | journal = Oral Diseases | volume = 4 | issue = 2 | pages = 78–83 | date = June 1998 | pmid = 9680894 | doi = 10.1111/j.1601-0825.1998.tb00261.x }}</ref>
Another study examined a combination of Vitamin E and [[beta carotene]] in smokers with early-stage cancer of the oropharynx, and found a worse [[prognosis]] in the vitamin users.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Bairati I, Meyer F, Gélinas M, Fortin A, Nabid A, Brochet F, Mercier JP, Têtu B, Harel F, Mâsse B, Vigneault E, Vass S, del Vecchio P, Roy J | display-authors = 6 | title = A randomized trial of antioxidant vitamins to prevent second primary cancers in head and neck cancer patients | journal = Journal of the National Cancer Institute | volume = 97 | issue = 7 | pages = 481–488 | date = April 2005 | pmid = 15812073 | doi = 10.1093/jnci/dji095 | doi-access = free }}</ref>

===Betel nut===
[[Betel nut]] chewing is associated with an increased risk of squamous cell cancer of the head and neck.<ref name="NCI" /><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Jeng JH, Chang MC, Hahn LJ | title = Role of areca nut in betel quid-associated chemical carcinogenesis: current awareness and future perspectives | journal = Oral Oncology | volume = 37 | issue = 6 | pages = 477–492 | date = September 2001 | pmid = 11435174 | doi = 10.1016/S1368-8375(01)00003-3 }}</ref>

===Infection===
====Human papillomavirus====
Some head and neck cancers are caused by [[human papillomavirus]] (HPV).<ref name="NCI" /> In particular, HPV16 is a causal factor for some head and neck squamous-cell carcinomas (HNSCCs).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.la-press.com/redirect_file.php?fileId=1510&filename=CMENT-Moss-et-al&fileType=pdf |title=Biomarkers for Cancers of the Head and Neck |access-date=2014-08-07}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = D'Souza G, Kreimer AR, Viscidi R, Pawlita M, Fakhry C, Koch WM, Westra WH, Gillison ML | display-authors = 6 | title = Case-control study of human papillomavirus and oropharyngeal cancer | journal = The New England Journal of Medicine | volume = 356 | issue = 19 | pages = 1944–1956 | date = May 2007 | pmid = 17494927 | doi = 10.1056/NEJMoa065497 | s2cid = 18819678 }}</ref> Approximately 15–25% of HNSCC contain genomic DNA from HPV,<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Kreimer AR, Clifford GM, Boyle P, Franceschi S | title = Human papillomavirus types in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas worldwide: a systematic review | journal = Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention | volume = 14 | issue = 2 | pages = 467–475 | date = February 2005 | pmid = 15734974 | doi = 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-04-0551 | doi-access = free }}</ref> and the association varies based on the site of the tumor,<ref name="Andrew W 2012">{{cite journal | vauthors = Joseph AW, D'Souza G | title = Epidemiology of human papillomavirus-related head and neck cancer | journal = Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America | volume = 45 | issue = 4 | pages = 739–764 | date = August 2012 | pmid = 22793850 | doi = 10.1016/j.otc.2012.04.003 }}</ref> especially [[HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer]], with highest distribution in the [[tonsils]], where
HPV DNA is found in (45 to 67%) of the cases,<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Perez-Ordoñez B, Beauchemin M, Jordan RC | title = Molecular biology of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck | journal = Journal of Clinical Pathology | volume = 59 | issue = 5 | pages = 445–453 | date = May 2006 | pmid = 16644882 | pmc = 1860277 | doi = 10.1136/jcp.2003.007641 }}</ref> less often in the hypopharynx (13–25%), and least often in the oral cavity (12–18%) and larynx (3–7%).<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Paz IB, Cook N, Odom-Maryon T, Xie Y, Wilczynski SP | title = Human papillomavirus (HPV) in head and neck cancer. An association of HPV 16 with squamous cell carcinoma of Waldeyer's tonsillar ring | journal = Cancer | volume = 79 | issue = 3 | pages = 595–604 | date = February 1997 | pmid = 9028373 | doi = 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0142(19970201)79:3<595::AID-CNCR24>3.0.CO;2-Y | doi-access = free }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Hobbs CG, Sterne JA, Bailey M, Heyderman RS, Birchall MA, Thomas SJ | title = Human papillomavirus and head and neck cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis | journal = Clinical Otolaryngology | volume = 31 | issue = 4 | pages = 259–266 | date = August 2006 | pmid = 16911640 | doi = 10.1111/j.1749-4486.2006.01246.x | url = http://www.drchrishobbs.com/uploads/8/2/1/2/8212308/hpv__hnscc.pdf | url-status = live | s2cid = 2502403 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170811041708/http://www.drchrishobbs.com/uploads/8/2/1/2/8212308/hpv__hnscc.pdf | archive-date = 2017-08-11 }}</ref>

Some experts estimate that while up to 50% of cancers of the tonsil may be infected with HPV, only 50% of these are likely to be caused by HPV (as opposed to the usual [[tobacco]] and [[alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] causes). The role of HPV in the remaining 25–30% is not yet clear.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Weinberger PM, Yu Z, Haffty BG, Kowalski D, Harigopal M, Brandsma J, Sasaki C, Joe J, Camp RL, Rimm DL, Psyrri A | display-authors = 6 | title = Molecular classification identifies a subset of human papillomavirus--associated oropharyngeal cancers with favorable prognosis | journal = Journal of Clinical Oncology | volume = 24 | issue = 5 | pages = 736–747 | date = February 2006 | pmid = 16401683 | doi = 10.1200/JCO.2004.00.3335 | url = http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/content/abstract/JCO.2004.00.3335v1 | url-status = live | author10 = Rimm, D. L. | author11 = Psyrri, A | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090120230312/http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/content/abstract/JCO.2004.00.3335v1 | archive-date = 2009-01-20 }}</ref> Oral sex is not risk free and results in a significant proportion of HPV-related head and neck cancer.<ref>{{cite web | title = Human Papillomavirus Infection and Oropharyngeal Cancer | vauthors = Haddad RI | url = http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/pdf/hpv_Infection.pdf | year = 2007 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120513152540/http://oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/pdf/hpv_Infection.pdf | archive-date = 2012-05-13 | access-date = 2012-09-26 }}</ref>

Positive HPV16 status is associated with improved prognosis over HPV-negative OSCC.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Tahtali A, Hey C, Geissler C, Filman N, Diensthuber M, Leinung M, Stöver T, Wagenblast J | display-authors = 6 | title = HPV status and overall survival of patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma--a retrospective study of a German head and neck cancer center | journal = Anticancer Research | volume = 33 | issue = 8 | pages = 3481–3485 | date = August 2013 | pmid = 23898123 | url = http://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/33/8/3481.long | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160107225436/http://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/33/8/3481.long | archive-date = 2016-01-07 }}</ref>

HPV can induce tumor by several mechanisms:<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Schmitz M, Driesch C, Beer-Grondke K, Jansen L, Runnebaum IB, Dürst M | title = Loss of gene function as a consequence of human papillomavirus DNA integration | journal = International Journal of Cancer | volume = 131 | issue = 5 | pages = E593–E602 | date = September 2012 | pmid = 22262398 | doi = 10.1002/ijc.27433 | s2cid = 21515048 }}</ref>
# E6 and E7 oncogenic proteins.
# Disruption of [[tumor suppressor gene]]s.
# High-level DNA amplifications, for example, [[oncogene]]s.
# Generating alternative nonfunctional transcripts.
# interchromosomal rearrangements.
# Distinct host genome methylation and expression patterns, produced even when virus isn't integrated into the host genome.

Induction of cancer can be associated for the expression of viral oncoproteins, the most important E6 and E7, or other mechanisms many of them run by the integration such as the generation of altered transcripts, disruption of tumor suppressors, high levels of DNA amplifications, interchromosomial rearrangements, or changes in DNA methylation patterns, the latter being able to find even when the virus is identified in episomes.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite journal | vauthors = Parfenov M, Pedamallu CS, Gehlenborg N, Freeman SS, Danilova L, Bristow CA, Lee S, Hadjipanayis AG, Ivanova EV, Wilkerson MD, Protopopov A, Yang L, Seth S, Song X, Tang J, Ren X, Zhang J, Pantazi A, Santoso N, Xu AW, Mahadeshwar H, Wheeler DA, Haddad RI, Jung J, Ojesina AI, Issaeva N, Yarbrough WG, Hayes DN, Grandis JR, El-Naggar AK, Meyerson M, Park PJ, Chin L, Seidman JG, Hammerman PS, Kucherlapati R | display-authors = 6 | title = Characterization of HPV and host genome interactions in primary head and neck cancers | journal = Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America | volume = 111 | issue = 43 | pages = 15544–15549 | date = October 2014 | pmid = 25313082 | pmc = 4217452 | doi = 10.1073/pnas.1416074111 | doi-access = free | bibcode = 2014PNAS..11115544P }}</ref><ref name="Andrew W 2012" /> E6 sequesters p53 to promote p53 degradation while E7 inhibits pRb. p53 prevents cell growth when DNA is damaged by activating apoptosis and p21, a kinase that blocks the formation of cyclin D / Cdk4 avoiding pRb phosphorylation and thereby prevents release of E2F is a transcription factor required for activation of genes involved in cell proliferation. pRb remains bound to E2F while this action phosphorylated preventing activation of proliferation. Therefore, E6 and E7 act synergistically in triggering cell cycle progression and therefore uncontrolled proliferation by inactivating the p53 and Rb tumor suppressors.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}

Viral integration tends to occur in or near oncogenes or [[tumor suppressor gene]]s and it is for this reason that the integration of the virus can greatly contribute to the development of tumor characteristics.<ref name="ReferenceA" />

====Epstein–Barr virus====
[[Epstein–Barr virus]] (EBV) infection is associated with [[nasopharyngeal carcinoma|nasopharyngeal cancer]]. Nasopharyngeal cancer occurs endemically in some countries of the Mediterranean and Asia, where EBV [[antibody titer]]s can be measured to screen high-risk populations. Nasopharyngeal cancer has also been associated with consumption of salted fish, which may contain high levels of [[nitrites]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Risks and causes {{!}} Nasopharyngeal cancer {{!}} Cancer Research UK |url=https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/nasopharyngeal-cancer/risks-causes |website=www.cancerresearchuk.org |access-date=4 December 2019}}</ref>

===Gastroesophageal reflux disease===
The presence of [[Gastroesophageal reflux disease|acid reflux disease]] (gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD]) or larynx reflux disease can also be a major factor. [[Stomach acid]]s that flow up through the [[esophagus]] can damage its lining and raise susceptibility to throat cancer.

===Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation===
Patients after [[hematopoietic stem cell transplantation]] (HSCT) are at a higher risk for oral squamous cell carcinoma. Post-HSCT oral cancer may have more aggressive behavior with poorer prognosis, when compared to oral cancer in non-HSCT patients.<ref name="HSCT">{{cite journal | vauthors = Elad S, Zadik Y, Zeevi I, Miyazaki A, de Figueiredo MA, Or R | title = Oral cancer in patients after hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation: long-term follow-up suggests an increased risk for recurrence | journal = Transplantation | volume = 90 | issue = 11 | pages = 1243–1244 | date = December 2010 | pmid = 21119507 | doi = 10.1097/TP.0b013e3181f9caaa }}</ref> This effect is supposed to be owing to the continuous lifelong [[immune system|immune]] suppression and chronic oral [[graft-versus-host disease]].<ref name="HSCT" />

===Other possible causes===
There are several risk factors for developing throat cancer. These include [[tobacco smoking|smoking]] or [[chewing tobacco]] or other things, such as [[gutkha]], or [[paan]], heavy [[alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] consumption, poor diet resulting in [[vitamin]] deficiencies (worse if this is caused by heavy alcohol intake), weakened [[immune system]], [[asbestos]] exposure, prolonged exposure to wood dust or paint fumes, exposure to [[petroleum]] industry chemicals, and being over the age of 55 years. Other risk factors include the appearance of white patches or spots in the mouth, known as [[leukoplakia]],<ref name=ridge /> which in about {{frac|1|3}} of cases develops into cancer, and breathing or inhaling silica from cutting concrete, stone or cinder-blocks, especially in enclosed areas such as a warehouse, garage or basement.

==Diagnosis==
{{multiple image | direction = vertical | width = 200
| image1 = PET-CT scanning of lymph node metastases in cancer 2.jpg
| image2 = PET-CT scanning of lymph node metastases in cancer.jpg
| footer = Left inferior internal jugular node metastases with extranodal invasion, two years after [[brachytherapy]] of [[oral cancer|tongue cancer]]. [[PET-CT]] scanning of a male in his 30s, 64 minutes after [[Fludeoxyglucose (18F)|fludeoxyglucose (<sup>18</sup>F)]] was administered, shows some fluff around the tumor.}}
A person usually presents to the physician complaining of {{clarify span|one or more of the above [[symptom]]s.|date=September 2021}} The person will typically undergo a [[needle biopsy]] of this lesion, and a [[histopathologic]] information is available, a multidisciplinary discussion of the optimal treatment strategy will be undertaken between the [[radiation oncologist]], [[surgical oncology|surgical oncologist]], and [[medical oncology|medical oncologist]].{{medcn|date=September 2017}} Most (90%) cancers of the head and neck are [[squamous cell]]-derived termed as "head-and-neck squamous-cell carcinomas".<ref name=Vug2015 />

===Histopathology===
Throat cancers are classified according to their [[histology]] or cell structure, and are commonly referred to by their location in the oral cavity and neck. This is because where the cancer appears in the throat affects the prognosis – some throat cancers are more aggressive than others depending upon their location. The stage at which the cancer is diagnosed is also a critical factor in the prognosis of throat cancer. Treatment guidelines recommend routine testing for the presence of HPV for all oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma tumours.<ref>{{cite web|title=Routine HPV Testing in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. EBS 5-9|url=https://www.cancercare.on.ca/common/pages/UserFile.aspx?fileId=279838|access-date=22 May 2017|date=May 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160930155638/https://www.cancercare.on.ca/common/pages/UserFile.aspx?fileId=279838|archive-date=30 September 2016}}</ref>

====Squamous-cell carcinoma====
[[Squamous-cell carcinoma]] is a [[cancer]] of the [[squamous cell]] – a kind of [[epithelial]] cell found in both the [[skin]] and [[mucous membrane]]s. It accounts for over 90% of all head and neck cancers,<ref name=Haines-2013 /> including more than 90% of throat cancer.<ref name=ridge /> Squamous cell carcinoma is most likely to appear in males over 40 years of age with a history of heavy alcohol use coupled with smoking.

The tumor marker Cyfra 21-1 may be useful in diagnosing squamous cell carcinoma of the head/neck (SCCHN).<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Wang YX, Hu D, Yan X | title = Diagnostic accuracy of Cyfra 21-1 for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a meta-analysis | journal = European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences | volume = 17 | issue = 17 | pages = 2383–2389 | date = September 2013 | pmid = 24065233 }}</ref>

====Adenocarcinoma====
[[Adenocarcinoma]] is a cancer of epithelial tissue that has [[gland]]ular characteristics. Several head and neck cancers are adenocarcinomas (either of intestinal or non-intestinal cell-type).<ref name=Haines-2013>{{cite book| vauthors = Haines III GK | veditors = Radosevich JA |title= Head & Neck Cancer: Current Perspectives, Advances, and Challenges|chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iaFEAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA267|date=24 May 2013|publisher=Springer Science & Business Media|isbn=978-94-007-5827-8|pages=257–87|chapter=Pathology of Head and Neck Cancers I: Epithelial and Related Tumors|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107225436/https://books.google.com/books?id=iaFEAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA267|archive-date=7 January 2016}}</ref>

==Prevention==
Avoidance of recognised risk factors (as described above) is the single most effective form of prevention. Regular dental examinations may identify pre-cancerous lesions in the oral cavity.<ref name="NCI" />

When diagnosed early, oral, head and neck cancers can be treated more easily and the chances of survival increase tremendously.<ref name="NCI" /> As of 2017 it was not known if existing HPV vaccines can help prevent head and neck cancer.<ref name="NCI" />

==Management==

Improvements in diagnosis and local management, as well as [[targeted therapy]], have led to improvements in quality of life and survival for people with head and neck cancer.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Al-Sarraf M | title = Treatment of locally advanced head and neck cancer: historical and critical review | journal = Cancer Control | volume = 9 | issue = 5 | pages = 387–399 | year = 2002 | pmid = 12410178 | doi = 10.1177/107327480200900504 | doi-access = free }}</ref>

After a histologic diagnosis has been established and tumor extent determined, the selection of appropriate treatment for a specific cancer depends on a complex array of variables, including tumor site, relative morbidity of various treatment options, concomitant health problems, social and logistic factors, previous primary tumors, and the person's preference. Treatment planning generally requires a multidisciplinary approach involving specialist surgeons and medical and radiation oncologists. {{Citation needed|reason=no source|date=May 2014}}

Surgical resection and radiation therapy are the mainstays of treatment for most head and neck cancers and remain the standard of care in most cases. For small primary cancers without regional metastases (stage I or II), wide surgical excision alone or curative radiation therapy alone is used. More extensive primary tumors, or those with regional metastases (stage III or IV), planned combinations of pre- or postoperative radiation and complete surgical excision are generally used. More recently, as historical survival and control rates are recognized as less than satisfactory, there has been an emphasis on the use of various induction or concomitant chemotherapy regimens.

===Surgery===
[[Surgery]] as a treatment is frequently used in most types of head and neck cancer. Usually the goal is to remove the cancerous cells entirely. This can be particularly tricky if the cancer is near the [[larynx]] and can result in the person being unable to speak. Surgery is also commonly used to resect (remove) some or all of the cervical lymph nodes to prevent further spread of the disease.

[[Laser surgery#Equipment|CO<sub>2</sub> laser surgery]] is also another form of treatment. [[Transoral laser microsurgery]] allows surgeons to remove tumors from the voice box with no external incisions. It also allows access to tumors that are not reachable with robotic surgery. During the surgery, surgeon and pathologist work together to assess the adequacy of excision ("margin status"), minimizing the amount of normal tissue removed or damaged.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Maxwell JH, Thompson LD, Brandwein-Gensler MS, Weiss BG, Canis M, Purgina B, Prabhu AV, Lai C, Shuai Y, Carroll WR, Morlandt A, Duvvuri U, Kim S, Johnson JT, Ferris RL, Seethala R, Chiosea SI | display-authors = 6 | title = Early Oral Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Sampling of Margins From Tumor Bed and Worse Local Control | journal = JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery | volume = 141 | issue = 12 | pages = 1104–1110 | date = December 2015 | pmid = 26225798 | pmc = 5242089 | doi = 10.1001/jamaoto.2015.1351 }}</ref> This technique helps give the person as much speech and swallowing function as possible after surgery.<ref>[http://www.mayoclinic.org/throat-cancer/treatment.html] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120305053649/http://www.mayoclinic.org/throat-cancer/treatment.html|date=March 5, 2012}}</ref>

===Radiation therapy===
[[File:radiation-mask.jpg|right|thumb|Radiation mask used in treatment of throat cancer]]
[[Radiation therapy]] is the most common form of treatment. There are different forms of radiation therapy, including 3D conformal radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy, [[Proton therapy|particle beam therapy]] and brachytherapy, which are commonly used in the treatments of cancers of the head and neck. Most people with head and neck cancer who are treated in the United States and Europe are treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy using high energy photons. At higher doses, head and neck radiation is associated with [[thyroid]] dysfunction and [[pituitary]] axis dysfunction.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Mahmood SS, Nohria A | title = Cardiovascular Complications of Cranial and Neck Radiation | journal = Current Treatment Options in Cardiovascular Medicine | volume = 18 | issue = 7 | pages = 45 | date = July 2016 | pmid = 27181400 | doi = 10.1007/s11936-016-0468-4 | s2cid = 23888595 }}</ref> Radiation therapy of head and neck cancers can also cause acute skin reactions of varying levels of severity, which can be treated and managed with topically applied creams or specialist films.<ref name=":2">{{cite journal | vauthors = Yan J, Yuan L, Wang J, Li S, Yao M, Wang K, Herst PM | title = Mepitel Film is superior to Biafine cream in managing acute radiation-induced skin reactions in head and neck cancer patients: a randomised intra-patient controlled clinical trial | journal = Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences | volume = 67 | issue = 3 | pages = 208–216 | date = September 2020 | pmid = 32475079 | pmc = 7476193 | doi = 10.1002/jmrs.397 | doi-access = free }}</ref>

===Chemotherapy===
[[Chemotherapy]] in throat cancer is not generally used to ''cure'' the cancer as such. Instead, it is used to provide an inhospitable environment for metastases so that they will not establish in other parts of the body. Typical chemotherapy agents are a combination of [[paclitaxel]] and [[carboplatin]]. [[Cetuximab]] is also used in the treatment of throat cancer.

[[Docetaxel]]-based chemotherapy has shown a very good response in locally advanced head and neck cancer. Docetaxel is the only [[taxane]] approved by US FDA for head and neck cancer, in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil for the induction treatment of inoperable, locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/druginfo/fda-docetaxel |title=FDA Approval for Docetaxel - National Cancer Institute |publisher=Cancer.gov |access-date=2014-08-07 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140901172746/http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/druginfo/fda-docetaxel |archive-date=2014-09-01}}</ref>

While not specifically a chemotherapy, [[amifostine]] is often administered [[intravenously]] by a chemotherapy clinic prior to [[IMRT]] radiotherapy sessions. Amifostine protects the gums and [[salivary glands]] from the effects of radiation.{{citation needed|date=June 2012}}

There is no evidence that [[erythropoietin]] should be routinely given with radiotherapy.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Lambin P, Ramaekers BL, van Mastrigt GA, Van den Ende P, de Jong J, De Ruysscher DK, Pijls-Johannesma M | title = Erythropoietin as an adjuvant treatment with (chemo) radiation therapy for head and neck cancer | journal = The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews | issue = 3 | pages = CD006158 | date = July 2009 | pmid = 19588382 | doi = 10.1002/14651858.CD006158.pub2 }}</ref>

===Photodynamic therapy===
[[Photodynamic therapy]] may have promise in treating mucosal dysplasia and small head and neck tumors.<ref name=ridge /> [[Amphinex]] is giving good results in early clinical trials for treatment of advanced head and neck cancer.<ref>"Inoperable cancers killed by new laser surgery" The Times. UK. 3-April-2010 p15</ref>

===Targeted therapy===
[[Targeted therapy]], according to the [[National Cancer Institute]], is "a type of treatment that uses drugs or other substances, such as monoclonal antibodies, to identify and attack specific cancer cells without harming normal cells." Some [[targeted therapy]] used in squamous cell cancers of the head and neck include [[cetuximab]], [[bevacizumab]] and [[erlotinib]].

The best quality data are available for [[cetuximab]] since the 2006 publication of a randomized clinical trial comparing radiation treatment plus cetuximab versus radiation treatment alone.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Bonner JA, Harari PM, Giralt J, Azarnia N, Shin DM, Cohen RB, Jones CU, Sur R, Raben D, Jassem J, Ove R, Kies MS, Baselga J, Youssoufian H, Amellal N, Rowinsky EK, Ang KK | display-authors = 6 | title = Radiotherapy plus cetuximab for squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck | journal = The New England Journal of Medicine | volume = 354 | issue = 6 | pages = 567–578 | date = February 2006 | pmid = 16467544 | doi = 10.1056/NEJMoa053422 | s2cid = 8521075 }}</ref> This study found that concurrent [[cetuximab]] and radiotherapy improves survival and locoregional disease control compared to radiotherapy alone, without a substantial increase in [[adverse effect|side effects]], as would be expected with the concurrent chemoradiotherapy, which is the current gold standard treatment for advanced head and neck cancer. Whilst this study is of pivotal significance, interpretation is difficult since cetuximab-radiotherapy was not directly compared to chemoradiotherapy. The results of ongoing studies to clarify the role of [[cetuximab]] in this disease are awaited with interest.

Another study evaluated the impact of adding [[cetuximab]] to conventional chemotherapy ([[cisplatin]]) versus [[cisplatin]] alone. This study found no improvement in survival or disease-free survival with the addition of [[cetuximab]] to the conventional chemotherapy.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Burtness B, Goldwasser MA, Flood W, Mattar B, Forastiere AA | title = Phase III randomized trial of cisplatin plus placebo compared with cisplatin plus cetuximab in metastatic/recurrent head and neck cancer: an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group study | journal = Journal of Clinical Oncology | volume = 23 | issue = 34 | pages = 8646–8654 | date = December 2005 | pmid = 16314626 | doi = 10.1200/JCO.2005.02.4646 }}</ref>

However, another study which completed in March 2007 found that there was an improvement in survival.{{Citation needed|date=September 2010}}

A 2010 review concluded that the combination of cetuximab and platin/5-fluorouracil should be considered the current standard first-line regimen.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Specenier P, Vermorken JB | title = Advances in the systemic treatment of head and neck cancers | journal = Current Opinion in Oncology | volume = 22 | issue = 3 | pages = 200–205 | date = May 2010 | pmid = 20154619 | doi = 10.1097/CCO.0b013e3283376e15 | s2cid = 20751568 }}</ref>

[[Gendicine]] is a [[gene therapy]] that employs an [[adenovirus]] to deliver the [[tumor suppressor gene]] [[p53]] to cells. It was approved in China in 2003 for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.<ref name=Gend>{{cite journal | vauthors = Pearson S, Jia H, Kandachi K | title = China approves first gene therapy | journal = Nature Biotechnology | volume = 22 | issue = 1 | pages = 3–4 | date = January 2004 | pmid = 14704685 | pmc = 7097065 | doi = 10.1038/nbt0104-3 }}</ref>

The mutational profile of [[Human papillomavirus infection|HPV]]+ and HPV- head and neck cancer has been reported, further demonstrating that they are fundamentally distinct diseases.
<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Lechner M, Frampton GM, Fenton T, Feber A, Palmer G, Jay A, Pillay N, Forster M, Cronin MT, Lipson D, Miller VA, Brennan TA, Henderson S, Vaz F, O'Flynn P, Kalavrezos N, Yelensky R, Beck S, Stephens PJ, Boshoff C | display-authors = 6 | title = Targeted next-generation sequencing of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma identifies novel genetic alterations in HPV+ and HPV- tumors | journal = Genome Medicine | volume = 5 | issue = 5 | pages = 49 | year = 2013 | pmid = 23718828 | pmc = 4064312 | doi = 10.1186/gm453 }}</ref>{{primary source inline|date=August 2013}}

===Immunotherapy===
[[Immunotherapy]] is a type of treatment that activates the immune system to fight cancer. One type of immunotherapy, immune checkpoint blockade, binds to and blocks inhibitory signals on immune cells to release their anti-cancer activities.

In 2016, the FDA granted accelerated approval to [[pembrolizumab]] for the treatment of people with recurrent or metastatic HNSCC with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy.<ref>{{Cite journal | author =Center for Drug Evaluation and Research |date=2019-02-09|title=pembrolizumab (KEYTRUDA)|url=https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/pembrolizumab-keytruda|journal=FDA|language=en}}</ref> Later that year, the FDA approved [[nivolumab]] for the treatment of recurrent or metastatic HNSCC with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy.<ref>{{Cite journal | author = Center for Drug Evaluation and Research |date=2018-11-03|title=Nivolumab for SCCHN|url=https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/nivolumab-scchn|journal=FDA|language=en}}</ref> In 2019, the FDA approved [[pembrolizumab]] for the first-line treatment of metastatic or unresectable recurrent HNSCC.<ref>{{Cite journal| author = Center for Drug Evaluation and Research | date=2019-06-11|title=FDA approves pembrolizumab for first-line treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma|url=https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/fda-approves-pembrolizumab-first-line-treatment-head-and-neck-squamous-cell-carcinoma|journal=FDA|language=en}}</ref>

===Treatment side effects===
Depending on the treatment used, people with head and neck cancer may experience the following symptoms and treatment side effects:<ref name=ridge /><ref name=":2" />
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
*Eating problems
*Pain associated with lesions
*[[Mucositis]]
*[[Nephrotoxicity]] and [[ototoxicity]]
*[[Xerostomia]]
*[[Gastroesophageal reflux]]
*Radiation-induced [[osteonecrosis of the jaw]] 
*Radiation-induced acute skin reactions
{{div col end}}

=== Psychosocial ===
Programs to support the emotional and social well-being of people who have been diagnosed with head and neck cancer may be offered.<ref name=":1">{{cite journal | vauthors = Semple C, Parahoo K, Norman A, McCaughan E, Humphris G, Mills M | title = Psychosocial interventions for patients with head and neck cancer | journal = The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews | issue = 7 | pages = CD009441 | date = July 2013 | pmid = 23857592 | doi = 10.1002/14651858.CD009441.pub2 | hdl-access = free | s2cid = 42090352 | hdl = 10026.1/3146 }}</ref> There is no clear evidence on the effectiveness of these interventions or any particular type of psychosocial program or length of time that is the most helpful for those with head and neck cancer.<ref name=":1" />

==Prognosis==
Although early-stage head and neck cancers (especially laryngeal and oral cavity) have high cure rates, up to 50% of people with head and neck cancer present with advanced disease.<ref name="Gourin C, Podolsky R 2006 1093–106">{{cite journal | vauthors = Gourin CG, Podolsky RH | title = Racial disparities in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma | journal = The Laryngoscope | volume = 116 | issue = 7 | pages = 1093–1106 | date = July 2006 | pmid = 16826042 | doi = 10.1097/01.mlg.0000224939.61503.83 | s2cid = 11140152 }}</ref>
Cure rates decrease in locally advanced cases, whose probability of cure is inversely related to tumor size and even more so to the extent of regional node involvement. {{Citation needed|date=November 2021}} HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer has been shown to respond better to chemoradiation and, subsequently, a better prognosis, compared to non-associated HPV head and neck cancer.<ref name=":3" />

Consensus panels in America ([[American Joint Committee on Cancer|AJCC]]) and Europe ([[Union for International Cancer Control|UICC]]) have established staging systems for [[head and neck squamous-cell cancer]]s. These staging systems attempt to standardize clinical trial criteria for research studies, and attempt to define prognostic categories of disease. Squamous cell cancers of the head and neck are staged according to the [[TNM staging system|TNM]] classification system, where T is the size and configuration of the tumor, N is the presence or absence of lymph node metastases, and M is the presence or absence of distant metastases. The T, N, and M characteristics are combined to produce a "stage" of the cancer, from I to IVB.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Iro H, Waldfahrer F | title = Evaluation of the newly updated TNM classification of head and neck carcinoma with data from 3247 patients | journal = Cancer | volume = 83 | issue = 10 | pages = 2201–2207 | date = November 1998 | pmid = 9827726 | doi = 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0142(19981115)83:10<2201::AID-CNCR20>3.0.CO;2-7 | doi-access = free }}</ref>

===Problem of second primaries===
Survival advantages provided by new treatment modalities have been undermined by the significant percentage of people cured of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) who subsequently develop second [[primary tumor]]s. The incidence of second primary tumors ranges in studies from 9%<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Jones AS, Morar P, Phillips DE, Field JK, Husband D, Helliwell TR | title = Second primary tumors in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma | journal = Cancer | volume = 75 | issue = 6 | pages = 1343–1353 | date = March 1995 | pmid = 7882285 | doi = 10.1002/1097-0142(19950315)75:6<1343::AID-CNCR2820750617>3.0.CO;2-T | doi-access = free }}</ref>
to 23%<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Cooper JS, Pajak TF, Rubin P, Tupchong L, Brady LW, Leibel SA, Laramore GE, Marcial VA, Davis LW, Cox JD | display-authors = 6 | title = Second malignancies in patients who have head and neck cancer: incidence, effect on survival and implications based on the RTOG experience | journal = International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics | volume = 17 | issue = 3 | pages = 449–456 | date = September 1989 | pmid = 2674073 | doi = 10.1016/0360-3016(89)90094-1 }}</ref>
at 20 years. Second primary tumors are the major threat to long-term survival after successful therapy of early-stage HNSCC.<ref name=priante-2011>{{cite journal | vauthors = Priante AV, Castilho EC, Kowalski LP | title = Second primary tumors in patients with head and neck cancer | journal = Current Oncology Reports | volume = 13 | issue = 2 | pages = 132–137 | date = April 2011 | pmid = 21234721 | doi = 10.1007/s11912-010-0147-7 | s2cid = 207335139 }}</ref> Their high incidence results from the same carcinogenic exposure responsible for the initial primary process, called [[field cancerization]].

===Digestive system===
Many people with head and neck cancer are also not able to eat sufficiently. A tumor may impair a person's ability to swallow and eat, and throat cancer may affect the [[digestive system]]. The difficulty in swallowing can lead to a person to [[choking|choke]] on their food in the early stages of digestion and interfere with the food's smooth travels down into the [[esophagus]] and beyond.

The treatments for throat cancer can also be harmful to the digestive system as well as other body systems. Radiation therapy can lead to [[nausea]] and [[vomiting]], which can deprive a body of vital fluids (although these may be obtained through intravenous fluids if necessary). Frequent vomiting can lead to an electrolyte imbalance which has serious consequences for the proper functioning of the heart. Frequent vomiting can also upset the balance of stomach acids which has a negative impact on the digestive system, especially the lining of the stomach and esophagus.

[[Enteral feeding]], a method that adds nutrients directly into a person's stomach using a [[Nasogastric intubation|nasogastric]] feeding tube or a [[gastrostomy tube]], may be necessary for some people.<ref name=":0">{{cite journal | vauthors = Nugent B, Lewis S, O'Sullivan JM | title = Enteral feeding methods for nutritional management in patients with head and neck cancers being treated with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy | journal = The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews | issue = 1 | pages = CD007904 | date = January 2013 | volume = 2013 | pmid = 23440820 | pmc = 6769131 | doi = 10.1002/14651858.CD007904.pub3 }}</ref> Further research is required to determine the most effective method of enteral feeding to ensure that people undergoing radiotherapy or chemoradiation treatment are able to stay nourished during their treatment.<ref name=":0" />

===Respiratory system===
In the cases of some throat cancers, the air passages in the [[mouth]] and behind the [[Human nose|nose]] may become blocked from lumps or the swelling from the open sores. If the throat cancer is near the bottom of the throat, it has a high likelihood of spreading to the [[lung]]s and interfering with the person's ability to [[breath]]e; this is even more likely if the person is a smoker, because they are highly susceptible to [[lung cancer]].

=== Mental health ===
Cancer in the head or neck may impact a person's mental well-being and can sometimes lead to social isolation.<ref name=":1" /> This largely results from decreased ability or inability to eat, speak or effectively communicate. Physical appearance is often altered by both the cancer itself or as a consequence of treatment side effects. Psychological distress may occur and feelings such as uncertainty and fear may arise.<ref name=":1" /> Some people may also have a changed physical appearance, differences in swallowing or breathing, and residual pain to manage.<ref name=":1" />

==== Patient Experience ====
'''Increased Caregiver Distress Unique to care for Head and Neck Cancer Patients'''

Multiple studies have shown caregivers for head and neck cancer patients show higher rates of distress and poorer mental health compared to both the general population as well as those caring for non-head-and-neck cancer patients.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Longacre ML, Ridge JA, Burtness BA, Galloway TJ, Fang CY | title = Psychological functioning of caregivers for head and neck cancer patients | journal = Oral Oncology | volume = 48 | issue = 1 | pages = 18–25 | date = January 2012 | pmid = 22154127 | pmc = 3357183 | doi = 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2011.11.012 }}</ref> The high symptom burden patients' experience necessitate complex caregiver roles, often requiring hospital staff training, which caregivers can find distressing when asked to do so for the first time. It is becoming increasingly apparent caregivers (most often spouses, children or close family members) might not be adequately informed about, nor prepared or trained for the tasks and roles he/she will encounter during the treatment and recovery phase for this unique patient population, which span both technical and emotional support.<ref name=":4">{{Cite journal| vauthors = Sherrod AM, Murphy BA, Wells NL, Bond SM, Hertzog M, Gilbert J, Adair M, Parks L, Lydiatt WM, Smith RB, Militsakh O | display-authors = 6 |date=2014-05-20|title=Caregiving burden in head and neck cancer. |journal=Journal of Clinical Oncology |volume=32 |issue=15_suppl |pages=e20678 |doi=10.1200/jco.2014.32.15_suppl.e20678 |issn=0732-183X}}</ref> Of note, caregivers of patient's who report lower quality of life, demonstrate increased burden and fatigue that extents beyond the treatment phase.

Examples of technically difficult caregiver duties include: tube feeding, oral suctioning, wound maintenance, medication delivery safe for tube feeding, and trouble shooting at home medical equipment. If the cancer affect the mouth or larynx, caregivers must also find a way to effectively communicate amongst themselves and with their healthcare team. This is in addition to providing emotional support for the person undergoing cancer therapy.<ref name=":4" />

===Others===
Like any [[cancer]], [[metastasis|metastasization]] affects many areas of the body, as the cancer spreads from cell to cell and [[organ (biology)|organ]] to organ. For example, if it spreads to the [[bone marrow]], it will prevent the body from producing enough [[red blood cell]]s and affects the proper functioning of the [[white blood cell]]s and the body's [[immune system]]; spreading to the [[circulatory system]] will prevent oxygen from being transported to all the cells of the body; and throat cancer can throw the [[nervous system]] into chaos, making it unable to properly regulate and control the body.

==Epidemiology==
[[File:Mouth and oropharynx cancers world map - Death - WHO2004.svg|thumb|[[Age adjustment|Age-standardized]] death from oro-pharyngeal per 100,000&nbsp;inhabitants in 2004<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/healthinfo/global_burden_disease/estimates_country/en/index.html |title=WHO Disease and injury country estimates |year=2009 |website=World Health Organization |access-date=Nov 11, 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091111101009/http://www.who.int/healthinfo/global_burden_disease/estimates_country/en/index.html |archive-date=2009-11-11}}</ref>{{refbegin|2}}
{{legend|#b3b3b3|no data}}
{{legend|#ffff65|less than 2}}
{{legend|#fff200|2-4}}
{{legend|#ffdc00|4-6}}
{{legend|#ffc600|6-8}}
{{legend|#ffb000|8-10}}
{{legend|#ff9a00|10-12}}
{{legend|#ff8400|12-14}}
{{legend|#ff6e00|14-16}}
{{legend|#ff5800|16-18}}
{{legend|#ff4200|18-20}}
{{legend|#ff2c00|20-25}}
{{legend|#cb0000|more than 25}}
{{refend}}]]
The number of new cases of head and neck cancers in the United States was 40,490 in 2006, accounting for about 3% of adult malignancies. A total of 11,170 people died of their disease in 2006.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Jemal A, Siegel R, Ward E, Murray T, Xu J, Smigal C, Thun MJ | title = Cancer statistics, 2006 | journal = CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians| volume = 56 | issue = 2 | pages = 106–130 | year = 2006 | pmid = 16514137 | doi = 10.3322/canjclin.56.2.106 | s2cid = 21618776 | doi-access = free }}</ref> The worldwide incidence exceeds half a million cases annually. In North America and Europe, the tumors usually arise from the oral cavity, oropharynx, or larynx, whereas nasopharyngeal cancer is more common in the Mediterranean countries and in the Far East. In Southeast China and Taiwan, head and neck cancer, specifically [[nasopharyngeal cancer]], is the most-common cause of death in young men.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Titcomb CP | title = High incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Asia | journal = Journal of Insurance Medicine | volume = 33 | issue = 3 | pages = 235–238 | year = 2001 | pmid = 11558403 }}</ref>

* In 2008, there were 22,900 cases of oral cavity cancer, 12,250 cases of laryngeal cancer, and 12,410 cases of pharyngeal cancer in the United States.<ref name=ridge />
* In 2002, 7,400 Americans were projected to die of these cancers.<ref name="ACS">Cancer Facts and Figures, [http://www.cancer.org/downloads/STT/CancerFacts&Figures2002TM.pdf] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929120429/http://www.cancer.org/downloads/STT/CancerFacts%26Figures2002TM.pdf|date=2007-09-29}}, American Cancer Society 2002.</ref>
* More than 70% of throat cancers are at an advanced stage when discovered.<ref name="NCH">{{cite web |url=http://cancer.nchmd.org/treatment.aspx?id=741 |title=Throat Cancer |access-date=2007-06-17 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070701170101/http://cancer.nchmd.org/treatment.aspx?id=741 |archive-date=2007-07-01 | work = Patient information web page | publisher = NCH Healthcare Systems | date = 1999 }}</ref>
* Men are 89% more likely than women to be diagnosed with, and are almost twice as likely to die of these cancers.<ref name="ACS" />
* African Americans are disproportionately affected by head and neck cancer, with younger ages of incidence, increased mortality, and more advanced disease at presentation.<ref name="Gourin C, Podolsky R 2006 1093–106" /> Laryngeal cancer incidence is higher in African Americans relative to white, Asian, and Hispanic populations. There is a lower survival rate for similar tumor states in African Americans with head and neck cancer.<ref name=ridge />
* Smoking and tobacco use are directly related to oropharyngeal (throat) cancer deaths.<ref name="HHS">''Reducing the Health Consequences of Smoking: 25 Years of Progress. A Report of the Surgeon General'', U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1989.</ref>
* The risk of developing head and neck cancers increases with age, especially after 50 years. Most people who do so are between 50 and 70 years old.<ref name=ridge />

==Research==
Immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors is being investigated in head and neck cancers.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Syn NL, Teng MW, Mok TS, Soo RA | title = De-novo and acquired resistance to immune checkpoint targeting | journal = The Lancet. Oncology | volume = 18 | issue = 12 | pages = e731–e741 | date = December 2017 | pmid = 29208439 | doi = 10.1016/s1470-2045(17)30607-1 }}</ref>

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{commons}}
* [https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/headandneckcancer.html Head and Neck Cancer] at [[MedlinePlus]] (National Library of Medicine)
* [http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=hdneck Head and Neck Cancer Treatment] at [[RadiologyInfo]]
* [http://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/head-and-neck-cancer Head and Neck Cancer] at Cancer.net ([[American Society of Clinical Oncology]])

{{Medical resources
|  DiseasesDB     = 
|  ICD10          = {{ICD10|C|07||c|00}}–{{ICD10|C|14||c|00}}<br />{{ICD10|C|32||c|30}}–{{ICD10|C|33||c|30}}
|  ICD9           = {{ICD9|140}}–{{ICD9|149}}
|  ICDO           = 
|  OMIM           = 
|  MedlinePlus    = 
|  eMedicineSubj  = 
|  eMedicineTopic = 
|  MeshID         = D006258
}}

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{{Human papillomavirus}}

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[[Category:Head and neck cancer| ]]
[[Category:Otorhinolaryngology]]
[[Category:Health effects of tobacco]]
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