Head & Neck Cancer
Overview of Head & Neck Cancer
This group of cancers begins in the tissues of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity, or salivary glands—usually as squamous cell carcinoma. They often share common risk factors like tobacco use, alcohol, and HPV infection. Early detection can prevent major disfigurement and loss of function
Head & Neck Cancer Cancer Types
Oral cancer
•Begins in the mouth (lips, tongue, gums, inner cheek, roof or floor of the mouth).
Oropharyngeal cancer
•Starts in the back of the mouth, including the base of the tongue, tonsils, and the walls of the throat.
Nasopharyngeal cancer
•Found in the upper part of the throat behind the nose.
Hypopharyngeal cancer
•Develops in the lower part of the throat around the voice box.
Laryngeal cancer
•Affects the voice box or larynx, which is important for talking and breathing
Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer
•Starts inside the nose or in air-filled spaces near the nose.
Salivary gland cancer
•Begins in the glands that make saliva in the mouth and throat.
Tonsil cancer
•Occurs in the tonsils at the back of the throat.
Head & Neck Cancer Symptoms
- •
Non-healing ulcers or growths in the mouth Painful or painless lesions lasting over 2 weeks
- •
Hoarseness or voice loss Sore throat that doesn't go away Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- •
A lump in the neck, jaw, or mouth Swelling without pain that persists
- •
Red or white patches inside the mouth Facial numbness or weakness Loose teeth or jaw pain
- •
Frequent nosebleeds or nasal congestion Blocked sinuses that don’t improve Ear pain, hearing loss, or ringing in the ears
- •
Unexplained weight loss Fatigue or lack of energy Persistent bad breath
What’s Notable
Many early symptoms are painless - especially in tobacco users
Men are more commonly affected, especially over age 40
When to Seek Help
If symptoms like a sore that doesn’t heal, hoarseness, or a neck lump last beyond 2 weeks — especially if you smoke or drink — consult a head and neck specialist early. Timely evaluation improves treatment success.
Head & Neck Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Tobacco use
Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using chewing tobacco or betel quid is linked to about 75–85% of head and neck cancers
Alcohol consumption
Drinking heavily or often, especially along with tobacco, increases risk several-fold
HPV infection
Human papillomavirus, especially types 16 and 18, is a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)
This virus raises the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer and some salivary gland cancers.
Prolonged sun exposure
UV rays can cause skin and lip cancers
Poor oral health
Untreated gum disease, missing teeth, and poor hygiene increase the chance of mouth cancers
Unhealthy diet
Low intake of fruits, vegetables, vitamins A/B, and high salt-cured or processed meat increase risk
Occupational exposures
Jobs with frequent contact with wood dust, asbestos, formaldehyde, paint fumes, or metal chemicals raise risk
Age and Gender
Risk rises after age 40 and is more common in men
Lowered immunity & genetic syndromes
Weakened immune systems (transplants, HIV/AIDS) and inherited conditions like Fanconi anemia increase risk
Head & Neck Cancer Diagnosis
Physical Examination
Step 1: Physical Examination (If you notice persistent ulcers, hoarseness, or neck lumps)
What happens:
- Doctor examines your mouth, throat, and neck.
- Your role: Share all symptoms, lifestyle habits, and medical history.
Endoscopy
Step 2: Endoscopy (To see deeper areas of the throat and nasal passages)
- A thin, flexible camera is used to inspect for hidden tumors.
- Quick, outpatient procedure.
Biopsy
Step 3: Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Types:
- Incisional Biopsy: Tissue from suspicious lesions.
- Fine Needle Aspiration: Sample from neck lumps.
- Your role: Ask about anesthesia or pain relief options.
Imaging
Step 4: Imaging Tests (To understand tumor size and spread)
- CT / MRI: Maps tumor size and location.
- PET-CT: Checks for spread.
- Ultrasound: For neck nodes.
Final Tests
Step 5: HPV Testing (For Oropharyngeal Cancer)
Especially if you're under 50 and a non-smoker. Helps guide targeted treatment decisions.
Step 1: Physical Examination (If you notice persistent ulcers, hoarseness, or neck lumps)
What happens:
- Doctor examines your mouth, throat, and neck.
- Your role: Share all symptoms, lifestyle habits, and medical history.
Step 2
Endoscopy
Step 3
Biopsy
Step 4
Imaging
Step 5
Final Tests
Head & Neck Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy
Purpose:
Kills cancer cells or sensitizes them to radiation
Common drugs:
Cisplatin, Carboplatin, 5-FU
Side Effects:
Nausea, fatigue, low blood counts
Note:
Used concurrently with radiation or as palliative treatment
Targeted Therapy
Purpose:
Blocks growth signals in cancer cells
Common drugs:
Cetuximab (targets EGFR)
Side effects :
Skin rash, low magnesium, infusion reactions
Note:
Useful when standard chemo isn't suitable
Immunotherapy
Purpose:
Harnesses immune system to attack cancer
Common drugs:
Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab
Side effects:
Fatigue, rash, organ inflammation
Note:
For advanced PD-L1+ cases or recurrence after treatment
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
How it works:
Targets tumor with focused high-energy rays
Treatment duration:
6–7 weeks, often daily sessions
Common side effects:
Sore throat, skin changes, dry mouth
Note:
IMRT helps protect nearby tissues
Brachytherapy
How it works:
Internal radiation placed close to tumor site
Treatment duration :
1–2 weeks
Common side effects:
Local irritation, swelling, ulceration
Note:
Often used in early oral/laryngeal cancers; availability is limited
Tumor Resection
What it is:
Surgical removal of the tumor
Used for:
Early to moderate-stage cancers of the mouth, throat, or larynx
Recovery :
2–4 weeks
Note:
May involve laser techniques, especially for vocal cords
Neck Dissection
What it is:
Removal of lymph nodes in the neck
Used for:
Node-positive cancers or risk of hidden spread
Recovery:
3–6 weeks
Note:
Can be selective, modified, or radical based on extent
Reconstructive Surgery
What it is:
Restoration of tissues after tumor removal using flaps or grafts
Used for:
Major defects in jaw, tongue, or throat
Recovery:
4–8 weeks
Note :
Includes dental rehab, speech therapy, prosthetics
Chemoradiation
Goal:
Shrink tumor while preserving function
What it involves:
Combined chemo and radiation
Used for:
Stage III–IV cancers in throat and larynx
Note:
Often avoids disfiguring surgery
Palliative Care
Goal:
Improve comfort and quality of life
Support provided:
Swallowing rehab, speech support, pain relief, emotional support
Note:
Can be started early alongside treatment
Recovery
Rehabilitation & Recovery
•Speech and swallowing therapy help restore vital functions affected by surgery or radiation.
Nutrition & Healing
•Customized diets support recovery from chewing or swallowing difficulties.
Ongoing Monitoring
•Regular follow-ups to track healing and check for recurrence
Psychological Support
•Counseling for body image concerns, anxiety, or fear of recurrence.
Peer Support
•Survivor communities and group therapy to reduce isolation and share lived experiences.
Functional Recovery
•Facial or dental reconstruction and physiotherapy to rebuild confidence and comfort
Lifestyle Planning
•Return to work, speech, eating, and social activities — at your own pace, with adjustments as needed
Caregiver Support
•Guidance and training for families assisting with recovery at home
Head & Neck Cancer Cancer Types
Oral cancer
•Begins in the mouth (lips, tongue, gums, inner cheek, roof or floor of the mouth).
Oropharyngeal cancer
•Starts in the back of the mouth, including the base of the tongue, tonsils, and the walls of the throat.
Nasopharyngeal cancer
•Found in the upper part of the throat behind the nose.
Hypopharyngeal cancer
•Develops in the lower part of the throat around the voice box.
Laryngeal cancer
•Affects the voice box or larynx, which is important for talking and breathing
Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer
•Starts inside the nose or in air-filled spaces near the nose.
Salivary gland cancer
•Begins in the glands that make saliva in the mouth and throat.
Tonsil cancer
•Occurs in the tonsils at the back of the throat.
Head & Neck Cancer Symptoms
- •
Non-healing ulcers or growths in the mouth Painful or painless lesions lasting over 2 weeks
- •
Hoarseness or voice loss Sore throat that doesn't go away Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- •
A lump in the neck, jaw, or mouth Swelling without pain that persists
- •
Red or white patches inside the mouth Facial numbness or weakness Loose teeth or jaw pain
- •
Frequent nosebleeds or nasal congestion Blocked sinuses that don’t improve Ear pain, hearing loss, or ringing in the ears
- •
Unexplained weight loss Fatigue or lack of energy Persistent bad breath
What’s Notable
Many early symptoms are painless - especially in tobacco users
Men are more commonly affected, especially over age 40
When to Seek Help
If symptoms like a sore that doesn’t heal, hoarseness, or a neck lump last beyond 2 weeks — especially if you smoke or drink — consult a head and neck specialist early. Timely evaluation improves treatment success.
Head & Neck Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Tobacco use
Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using chewing tobacco or betel quid is linked to about 75–85% of head and neck cancers
Alcohol consumption
Drinking heavily or often, especially along with tobacco, increases risk several-fold
HPV infection
Human papillomavirus, especially types 16 and 18, is a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)
This virus raises the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer and some salivary gland cancers.
Prolonged sun exposure
UV rays can cause skin and lip cancers
Poor oral health
Untreated gum disease, missing teeth, and poor hygiene increase the chance of mouth cancers
Unhealthy diet
Low intake of fruits, vegetables, vitamins A/B, and high salt-cured or processed meat increase risk
Occupational exposures
Jobs with frequent contact with wood dust, asbestos, formaldehyde, paint fumes, or metal chemicals raise risk
Age and Gender
Risk rises after age 40 and is more common in men
Lowered immunity & genetic syndromes
Weakened immune systems (transplants, HIV/AIDS) and inherited conditions like Fanconi anemia increase risk
Head & Neck Cancer Diagnosis
Physical Examination
Step 1: Physical Examination (If you notice persistent ulcers, hoarseness, or neck lumps)
What happens:
- Doctor examines your mouth, throat, and neck.
- Your role: Share all symptoms, lifestyle habits, and medical history.
Endoscopy
Step 2: Endoscopy (To see deeper areas of the throat and nasal passages)
- A thin, flexible camera is used to inspect for hidden tumors.
- Quick, outpatient procedure.
Biopsy
Step 3: Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Types:
- Incisional Biopsy: Tissue from suspicious lesions.
- Fine Needle Aspiration: Sample from neck lumps.
- Your role: Ask about anesthesia or pain relief options.
Imaging
Step 4: Imaging Tests (To understand tumor size and spread)
- CT / MRI: Maps tumor size and location.
- PET-CT: Checks for spread.
- Ultrasound: For neck nodes.
Final Tests
Step 5: HPV Testing (For Oropharyngeal Cancer)
Especially if you're under 50 and a non-smoker. Helps guide targeted treatment decisions.
Step 1: Physical Examination (If you notice persistent ulcers, hoarseness, or neck lumps)
What happens:
- Doctor examines your mouth, throat, and neck.
- Your role: Share all symptoms, lifestyle habits, and medical history.
Step 2
Endoscopy
Step 3
Biopsy
Step 4
Imaging
Step 5
Final Tests
Head & Neck Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy
Purpose:
Kills cancer cells or sensitizes them to radiation
Common drugs:
Cisplatin, Carboplatin, 5-FU
Side Effects:
Nausea, fatigue, low blood counts
Note:
Used concurrently with radiation or as palliative treatment
Targeted Therapy
Purpose:
Blocks growth signals in cancer cells
Common drugs:
Cetuximab (targets EGFR)
Side effects :
Skin rash, low magnesium, infusion reactions
Note:
Useful when standard chemo isn't suitable
Immunotherapy
Purpose:
Harnesses immune system to attack cancer
Common drugs:
Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab
Side effects:
Fatigue, rash, organ inflammation
Note:
For advanced PD-L1+ cases or recurrence after treatment
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
How it works:
Targets tumor with focused high-energy rays
Treatment duration:
6–7 weeks, often daily sessions
Common side effects:
Sore throat, skin changes, dry mouth
Note:
IMRT helps protect nearby tissues
Brachytherapy
How it works:
Internal radiation placed close to tumor site
Treatment duration :
1–2 weeks
Common side effects:
Local irritation, swelling, ulceration
Note:
Often used in early oral/laryngeal cancers; availability is limited
Tumor Resection
What it is:
Surgical removal of the tumor
Used for:
Early to moderate-stage cancers of the mouth, throat, or larynx
Recovery :
2–4 weeks
Note:
May involve laser techniques, especially for vocal cords
Neck Dissection
What it is:
Removal of lymph nodes in the neck
Used for:
Node-positive cancers or risk of hidden spread
Recovery:
3–6 weeks
Note:
Can be selective, modified, or radical based on extent
Reconstructive Surgery
What it is:
Restoration of tissues after tumor removal using flaps or grafts
Used for:
Major defects in jaw, tongue, or throat
Recovery:
4–8 weeks
Note :
Includes dental rehab, speech therapy, prosthetics
Chemoradiation
Goal:
Shrink tumor while preserving function
What it involves:
Combined chemo and radiation
Used for:
Stage III–IV cancers in throat and larynx
Note:
Often avoids disfiguring surgery
Palliative Care
Goal:
Improve comfort and quality of life
Support provided:
Swallowing rehab, speech support, pain relief, emotional support
Note:
Can be started early alongside treatment
Recovery
Rehabilitation & Recovery
•Speech and swallowing therapy help restore vital functions affected by surgery or radiation.
Nutrition & Healing
•Customized diets support recovery from chewing or swallowing difficulties.
Ongoing Monitoring
•Regular follow-ups to track healing and check for recurrence
Psychological Support
•Counseling for body image concerns, anxiety, or fear of recurrence.
Peer Support
•Survivor communities and group therapy to reduce isolation and share lived experiences.
Functional Recovery
•Facial or dental reconstruction and physiotherapy to rebuild confidence and comfort
Lifestyle Planning
•Return to work, speech, eating, and social activities — at your own pace, with adjustments as needed
Caregiver Support
•Guidance and training for families assisting with recovery at home
At Everhope, our experts support your proactive care with advanced treatment — guiding you with knowledge, hope, and healing.
global deaths in 2022
new cases diagnosed worldwide in 2022
cases in India in 2024
FAQs on Head & Neck Cancer
No question is too small when it comes to your care
Head and neck cancers can be cured, especially when found early and treated before they spread. Cure rates are highest for localized cancers. Advanced cases are harder to cure but treatment can help control the disease and improve quality of life
HPV-positive head and neck cancers are tumors caused by human papillomavirus (mainly HPV-16). They usually occur in the back of the throat and tonsils, affect younger people, and respond better to treatment with higher survival rates than non-HPV cancers.
Some people experience changes in speech or swallowing after surgery or radiotherapy, but many recover these abilities with help from speech therapists and nutrition experts. Most patients find eating and talking easier as side effects improve over time
Yes, possible side effects include dry mouth, taste changes, swallowing problems, changes in voice, fatigue, and skin irritation. Long-term effects may include dental issues or limited jaw movement, but supportive care and therapy can help manage these issues
Survival rates depend on cancer type and stage. Five-year survival for all head and neck cancers is around 60%; it’s higher for laryngeal cancer (63%) and lower for oral cavity and hypopharyngeal cancer (about 49–50%)
Appointments for head and neck cancer care are available at Everhope Oncology’s centers in Gurgaon, with easy web and phone booking, private treatment suites, and a full team of expert doctors. To get started, visit the Everhope Oncology website, or call +91 7950 60087
Find a Centre Near You
Gurgaon EBD 65
EBD 65, Sector 65, Golf Course Extension Road, Gurgaon